What do disagreements between the contractor and the owner over contract performance refer to?

Disagreements between the contractor and the owner over contract performance are best categorized as disputes. A dispute arises when there is a difference in opinion regarding the interpretation of contract terms, performance expectations, or compliance with specifications, leading to a conflict between the parties involved. Disputes can encompass issues such as delays, unexpected costs, or quality of work, often requiring resolution through discussions, negotiations, or legal action.

While negotiations and conflicts are related concepts, they do not specifically define the formal disagreement itself; instead, negotiations are typically the process undertaken to resolve disputes, and conflicts can refer to broader issues beyond contractual misunderstandings. Concerns might indicate apprehension or issues brought up by either party, but they do not capture the essence of a formal disagreement in contractual terms. Thus, disputes accurately encapsulate the specific nature of disagreements related to contract performance.