Keeping orderly and complete files of all your construction projects and transactions will save you time and energy if you must go to court. Compiling the documentation is time-consuming during a job and nearly impossible after the job is completed. But keeping complete records is always well worth the effort to win a case. Documents aren't merely important at the trial of a construction case, they are the most essential part of the trial. Each document can play a role in determining responsibility and payment. That's why contractors should keep accurate records of plans, specifications, addenda, bid documents, approved change orders and field orders, a log of all job problems and solutions, design mix test reports, concrete inspection reports and shop drawings, certificates of payment, and certificates of substantial completion and final completion.