Pricing & allowances

Risk Allowance

A specific amount included to reflect an identified risk after considering its potential cost and likelihood.

Alphabetised construction reference cards beside a drawing and scale ruler
Construction glossaryCategory: Pricing & allowances.
Definition

A specific amount included to reflect an identified risk after considering its potential cost and likelihood.

Why it matters

Named risk allowances are easier to review than a single unexplained contingency percentage.

Example in practice

The internal review carries a risk allowance for restricted delivery hours identified during the site visit.

Use the term carefully

Keep the named risk, its evidence and the accepted treatment visible alongside the amount.

Compare related terms

Contingency ยท Scope gap

Use the price-review checklist to keep the client wording and approved basis consistent.