What is the R&D tax credit?

The R&D tax credit (IRC Section 41) is a federal tax incentive that rewards businesses for investing in innovation — including developing new products, improving processes, building software, and solving technical challenges.

How much does Alexander & Blake charge?

Alexander & Blake typically works on a contingency basis. There is no upfront retainer — our fee is based on a percentage of credits identified, paid after filing.

Does my business qualify for R&D tax credits?

If your business develops or improves products, processes, software, or techniques, and faces technical uncertainty in doing so, you may qualify. The credit applies across many industries including manufacturing, software, construction, and engineering.

Construction Industry

Construction Firms Qualify for R&D Credits Too.

If your team develops innovative methods, solves structural challenges, or designs complex systems, you likely qualify for significant R&D tax credits.

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What Construction Activities Qualify?

More of your engineering work qualifies than you might think

Innovative Construction Methods

Developing new construction techniques or building approaches that solve specific technical challenges — including modular, tilt-up, or hybrid methods.

Structural Engineering Design

Engineering analysis involving uncertainty including complex structural systems, foundation solutions, and load-bearing innovations.

MEP Systems Engineering

Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems design involving technical experimentation and integration of complex building systems.

Environmental Solutions

Stormwater management, soil stabilization, environmental remediation, LEED-driven innovations, or sustainable construction techniques.

Building Envelope Design

Innovative work on building envelopes, insulation systems, moisture control, or energy-efficient wall assemblies involving technical uncertainty.

Construction Technology

New construction technology, BIM applications, prefabrication, modular construction systems, and drone-based site surveying.

Real Results for SC Construction Firms

A Charleston-area general contractor had never considered R&D credits. After our assessment, we identified $680,000 in qualifying expenses across structural engineering, MEP design, and innovative site work — recovering $89,000 in combined federal and SC state credits.

IndustryGeneral Contracting / Design-Build

LocationCharleston, SC

Qualifying Expenses$680,000

Federal Credit$55,000

SC State Credit$34,000

Total Recovered$89,000

Frequently Asked Questions

Does construction work really qualify for R&D credits?

Yes. The IRS has affirmed that construction activities involving technical uncertainty qualify. This includes structural engineering, innovative building methods, MEP integration, environmental solutions, and any work requiring experimentation to resolve technical challenges.

What about design-build firms?

Design-build firms often have the highest qualifying percentages because both the design and construction phases can involve qualifying R&D activities. Engineering time, prototyping, testing, and iterative problem-solving all count.

What records do construction companies need?

Payroll records for engineers and project managers, project documentation, RFIs, engineering calculations, change orders related to technical challenges, and contractor invoices. We help you identify and organize what you already have.

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Find out exactly what your construction company qualifies for. No upfront cost. No obligation.

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