Examining the Relationship Between Contract Documentation Quality and Dispute Frequency in Nigerian Construction

Poor contract documentation is widely hypothesised to increase construction dispute incidence, yet empirical evidence of this relationship in the Nigerian context is limited. This study examines the relationship between contract documentation quality and dispute frequency in Nigerian building and civil engineering projects, using a multizone dataset. A quantitative design was employed, with 210 quantity surveyors, lawyers, and project managers rating the documentation quality of 65 projects on a structured assessment instrument and reporting dispute incidence and resolution mode. Documentation quality was assessed across six dimensions: drawings completeness, specifications clarity, bills of quantities accuracy, conditions of contract appropriateness, programme detail, and risk provision adequacy. Structural equation modelling and logistic regression were used for analysis. Results confirm a significant negative relationship between documentation quality scores and dispute frequency, with an odds ratio of 3.4 times greater likelihood of formal dispute in projects rated below mean documentation quality. Bills of quantities accuracy and conditions of contract appropriateness demonstrate the strongest individual predictive power. The study finds that quantity surveyor involvement in documentation preparation significantly improves quality scores across all dimensions. Unlike prior studies that rely on expert opinions, this research uses project-level matched data enabling objective relationship testing. Recommendations target procurement regulations, professional role mandates, and standard form adoption. Keywords: contract documentation, dispute frequency, quantity surveying, construction contracts, Nigeria