Utah Contractor Practice Exam

What must a contractor do if the work is not started within 20 days of the start date?

1. Send a notice to the owner

2. Pay a fine

3. Void the contract

4. Be in violation of the law

The correct answer is: Be in violation of the law

In Utah, if a contractor does not commence work within the specified timeframe of 20 days from the start date outlined in the contract, they are in violation of the legal requirements governing construction contracts. This stipulation is generally in place to ensure timely progress and prevent unnecessary delays that could adversely affect the project, the homeowner, and other stakeholders involved. When work is delayed beyond this 20-day period without proper communication or justification, the law may classify the contractor's inaction as a violation of contractual obligations, which can have various implications. This may include the potential for the owner to pursue legal remedies, including the right to terminate the contract or seek damages caused by the delay. The other options do not align with the legal standards typically set in construction contracts. For instance, while sending a notice to the owner could be a prudent course of action if there were legitimate reasons for the delay, it is not the primary legal requirement. Similarly, while fines may apply in certain administrative contexts, they are not a direct consequence of failing to start work as per the contract. Voiding the contract is typically a remedy rather than an action taken by the contractor themselves in such circumstances.