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Construction glossary

What is a Debit?

A debit, in the construction industry, refers to an entry which represents an increase in expenses or a decrease in income for the business. It could come from paying for labor, materials, overheads, or any other costs related to a construction project. It could also come from a decrease in revenue due to a project delay, change in project scope, or a decrease in clients' payment. An understanding of debits is pivotal in managing the financial aspects of construction because it affects cash flow and profitability. The term is part of the double-entry accounting system used widely across industries, including construction, where for every debit entry, there must be a corresponding credit entry. Therefore, properly tracking and categorizing debits is crucial in financial planning and management in construction.

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Other construction terms

Factoring

What is Factoring?

Factoring in the construction industry refers to a financial service where a business sells its unpaid invoices, usually at a discount, to a third-party factoring company (the factor). This process provides the company with immediate cash flow to cover business expenses, like paying for supplies or labor wages. It's like a financial tool to keep up with the industry's fast pace where immediate payment is commonly required. The third-party factor then takes the responsibility to collect full payment from the customer. This method is particularly useful in the construction industry, where projects can be lengthy and cash flow stability is crucial.

Chart of Accounts

What is a Chart of Accounts?

A Chart of Accounts (COA) in the construction industry is essentially a financial organizational tool that provides a complete listing of every account in an accounting system. These accounts are typically used to categorize financial transactions that a business has to deal with to conduct its everyday operations. In construction, the COA may include accounts such as materials, labor costs, subcontractor fees, overhead expenses, equipment costs, and liabilities. Different project types will often require different charts of accounts. Furthermore, the COA assists in organizing the company's finances and ensuring accurate financial reporting, it's also important for identifying the total costs of a construction job, tracking profit margins, and analyzing expenses. It's a critical tool in managing a construction company's finances.

Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)

What are Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)?

Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) are a set of standardized rules and procedures in accounting to provide consistency in financial reporting across different entities. In the construction industry, GAAP are of particular importance due to the unique nature of accounting involved. For instance, consideration of revenue recognition when recognizing costs for long-term projects is guided by GAAP. Under GAAP, the percentage of completion method is commonly used, allowing companies to report income as the work progresses, thus providing a more accurate view of the financial health of a construction company. Similarly, fixed asset accounting, inventory valuation, recognition of liabilities, and depreciation methods are all guided by GAAP in the construction industry. By adhering to GAAP, the construction industry ensures transparency, consistency, and comparability in its financial information, promoting investor confidence and informed decision-making.

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