Guest: Shawn Naidu, Senior Estimator and Business Developer, Matra Construction
Location: Harrison Lake, BC
In episode 10 of Real-Steps, Shawn Naidu joins the show for a wake surfing challenge at Harrison Lake while delivering a direct update on trends in construction contracts. As more clients move away from stipulated sum hard bids toward construction management models such as CCDC 5B, Shawn breaks down why early preconstruction involvement reduces risk, improves cost certainty, and minimizes reactive change orders. He addresses common misconceptions around construction management being a blank cheque, explaining how transparent fee structures, defined change order processes, and proactive risk identification protect owners when engaged early, ideally six to twelve months before construction. The episode offers a practical overview of how thoughtful contract selection, runway, and collaboration between consultants, landlords, and contractors can materially impact project outcomes.