Understanding 2 Key Revenue Recognition Methods for Construction

Accurate revenue recognition is essential in construction accounting for reflecting a project's financial performance. Choosing between different ways to recognize income can have a big effect on how the financial health of a company is reported. This blog post explores two key revenue recognition methods for construction: the Completed Contract Method (CCM) and the Percentage of Completion Method (POC). Understanding these ways is important for managing money well and following the law.

What is Revenue Recognition in Construction?

Before diving into the specific methods, let's clarify what revenue recognition means in the context of construction projects.

Revenue recognition is the process of recording revenue in financial statements. For building companies, this means recording income and costs in a way that shows how projects are progressing and how they are finished. Financial statements must show a clear picture of a company's success for all stakeholders, such as creditors, investors, and management. Correct revenue recognition is a key part of this.

Now, let's explore the two primary methods of revenue recognition in construction.

Method 1: Percentage of Completion Method 

1. Definition and Explanation

The Percentage of Completion Accounting (POC) involves recognizing revenue based on the progress of a construction project. Under POC, revenue and expenses are recorded proportionally as the project progresses. This method provides a more accurate and ongoing reflection of the project's financial performance.

• Revenue and Expenses: Recognized in proportion to the work completed.

• Profit Margin: Updated regularly based on project progress.

Read more: 4 Keys to Improve Construction Profit Margin

2. How Does the Percentage of Completion Method Work?

Under this method, you recognize revenue based on the percentage of work completed during each accounting period. Here's a simple formula:

Revenue Recognized = (Estimated Total Contract Revenue) × (Percentage of Work Completed)

3. Pros and Cons:

Pros

• Accurate Financial Reporting: POC provides a realistic view of financial performance by matching revenue and expenses to the project's progress.

• Timely Insights: Finances are regularly updated to show ongoing progress, giving more up-to-date information on the project's situation.

Cons

• Complexity: POC requires detailed estimates of project costs and progress, which can be challenging to manage. Accurate accounting under POC depends on precise forecasting and monitoring.

• Risks of Estimation: Since estimates are used to figure out income and costs, changes may need to be made as the project goes on, which can make it harder to present finances.

  
  

4. When to Use Percentage of Completion Method 

POC works great for long-term projects where you need to keep an eye on progress and report on it regularly. For instance, Large commercial building projects or infrastructure projects, for example, often use POC to give accurate and timely updates on how the money is doing. This method makes sure that the financial records show how the project is going right now, which helps with making decisions and managing money better. 

Read more: 6 Key Construction Accounting Methods and How to Apply

Method 2: Completed Contract Method

1. Definition and Explanation

The Completed Contract Method (CCM) is one of the key methods used in construction revenue recognition. Under CCM, revenue and expenses are recognized only when a construction project is completed. With this method, revenue isn't recognized until the deal is fully carried out. 

• Revenue and Expenses: Recognized in full at the end of the project.

• Profit Margin: Calculated only when the project is completed.

2. How Does the Completed Contract Method Work?

With this method, all costs are added up on the balance sheet as "construction in progress." The job is only counted as finished or mostly finished before the revenue and costs are recognized.

3. Pros and Cons

Pros

• Simplicity: CCM is easy to apply as it involves minimal estimation. Revenue and expenses are recorded in one period, making accounting straightforward.

• Deferral of Income Taxes: By deferring revenue recognition until project completion, companies can potentially defer income tax liabilities. This can be advantageous for tax planning and cash flow management.

Cons

• Delayed Financial Insights: Since revenue and expenses are recorded only at the end of the project, CCM may not provide timely insights into the financial status of long-term projects.

• Potential for Distorted Financial Statements: Finishing big projects in a short time can cause big changes in financial statements, which could affect how you analyze them and make decisions.

4. When to Use Completed Contract Method Work

CCM is typically used for short-term projects or when it is difficult to estimate the outcome of a project. For example, a small residential renovation project with a clear end date might be best suited for CCM.  

How to Choose the Right Method for Your Business

The primary difference between CCM and POC comes from the timing of revenue recognition. CCM recognizes all revenue and expenses at the end of the project, while POC recognizes revenue and expenses progressively based on the project's completion. These differences affect how financial statements are presented and analyzed.

Deciding between the percentage of completion and completed contract methods depends on various factors. Here are some questions to consider:

1. How long are your typical projects?

2. Can you reliably estimate costs and progress?

3. What are your company's cash flow needs?

4. How do your stakeholders prefer to see revenue reported?

Conclusion

Understanding the two key revenue recognition methods—Completed Contract Method (CCM) and Percentage of Completion Method (POC)—is crucial for accurate financial reporting in construction. CCM offers simplicity but may delay financial insights, while POC provides a more detailed and timely reflection of project performance. The right way to use depends on the nature of the project and the needs for financial reporting.

For construction companies looking to streamline their accounting practices, consider professional assistance to ensure accurate and efficient financial management. At Construction Cost Accounting, our expertise helps simplify your accounting and save you valuable time.

Need help with your construction accounting? Contact us today to see how our services can benefit your business.