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Acronymsaka: guaranteed maximum priceaka: GMP contract

GMP (Guaranteed Maximum Price)

In Plain English

A contract price cap where the contractor absorbs any cost overruns beyond the agreed maximum.

Definition

A Guaranteed Maximum Price is a contract pricing structure in which the contractor agrees to complete the project for a stated maximum cost, assuming financial responsibility for costs exceeding that amount unless they result from owner-directed changes. Savings below the GMP may be shared between owner and contractor according to a negotiated split. GMP contracts are common in CMAR delivery and allow projects to begin construction before design is fully complete, while capping the owner's cost exposure.

Example

The construction manager signs a GMP of $22 million; when material costs run higher than estimated, the CM absorbs the $400,000 overrun from its contingency.

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