Digital Time Tracking in Construction: Solutions for Legal Requirements and More

16. June 2025

More than just a requirement – reimagining time tracking ⏱️

Die digital time tracking in construction has become indispensable – not only on the construction site but also in the office. Since the introduction of the legal obligation for time tracking, it is clear: analogue timesheets are a thing of the past. The industry is undergoing a transformation – and those who now rely on digital solutions save time, money, and nerves.

In this guide, we show how you meet the legal requirements while making your company more efficient. With tools that work as simply as WhatsApp.


Legal basics: What does time tracking mean in the construction industry? 👷

The systematic recording of working hours has been mandatory since a ruling by the European Court of Justice. Construction companies are also required to fully document the start, end, and duration of daily working hours – regardless of company size or type of employment.

Especially on construction sites with changing locations, the analogue method of handwritten timesheets presents a challenge. Digital solutions provide relief here and enable legal compliance, ease of use, and practical implementation of the requirements – for example, through mobile apps or even messaging services.

More about the time tracking obligation in the construction industry


Digital time tracking in construction: Tools, apps, and mobile solutions 🚧

Digital time tracking in construction is available today in many variations – from specialized software solutions to easy-to-use apps or even messaging services. They enable flexible, mobile, and legal compliance in recording working hours directly on the construction site – regardless of location or device.

Mobile applications play a central role, especially in the construction industry. They allow for recording via smartphone, tablet, or QR code system – often capable of offline use and with GPS support. The use of tools like WhatsApp is also increasingly being tested in practice.

The selection of time tracking solutions is vast. Depending on company size, project structure, and individual requirements, a systematic comparison is worthwhile to find the right tool.

Reimagining time tracking: WhatsApp as a tool
Comparison of the best time tracking tools for the construction site (coming soon)


Time tracking for payroll and billing 📝

Accurate time tracking is the foundation for error-free payroll. Inaccurate or incomplete information leads not only to inquiries but also to potential billing errors and conflicts.

Digital systems create clarity here: they enable a structured handover of recorded times to accounting, reduce manual transfer errors, and provide greater transparency in billing.

Time tracking for payroll: error-free and efficient


Time tracking in skilled trades 🔨

Even smaller skilled trades businesses are subject to the obligation to track working hours. At the same time, there is often a lack of time or budget for complex IT solutions. Therefore, simple, mobile systems that can be easily integrated into daily work are all the more important.

In skilled trades, digital solutions have proven to be an effective means of increasing efficiency – both in time tracking and in providing proof to clients or authorities.

Time tracking in skilled trades: The path to greater efficiency


The digital timesheet: From paper to app 📑

Paper timesheets are still widespread – but they are also prone to errors, confusing, and difficult to trace later. Digital alternatives allow for direct input on mobile devices, reduce transfer errors, and facilitate evaluation.

For companies, this means more transparency, less effort in follow-up processing, and better traceability in relation to third parties. A free PDF template is available as an entry aid that facilitates the transition and creates initial digital structures.

Digital timesheet: From paper to digital
To the free PDF template for digital timesheets

You can also fill out our form directly and receive the template immediately:


Time tracking with Valoon: An intuitive solution for construction companies 🚀

Valoon offers a digital solution specifically designed for the needs of the construction industry. The platform enables mobile time tracking directly on the construction site – easy to use and without significant implementation effort.

Not only does Valoon support digital time tracking in construction, but it also automates processes and facilitates documentation in communication between the office and the construction site. The data is processed in compliance with GDPR and can be seamlessly integrated into existing workflows.


Time tracking of the future: Trends and developments 🛸

The digitization of time tracking is not standing still. New technologies like artificial intelligence, automated evaluations, and smart devices open new possibilities for even more efficient and error-free tracking.

Future systems could be seamlessly linked with project management and payroll tools, automatically analyze processes, and respond to deviations. This not only provides more control for companies in the construction industry but also a real competitive advantage.


Conclusion: Digital time tracking in construction is mandatory – but also a huge opportunity 🥇

The legal requirements force companies to react – but those who view the obligation as an opportunity for digitization win: more overview, less stress, better planning. And above all: satisfied teams and a future-proof company.

Digital time tracking in construction is not only a legal requirement but also an important step towards greater efficiency and transparency on the construction site. Those who now rely on digital solutions not only improve payroll and documentation but also optimize the entire project planning and management. This not only improves communication between the office and the construction site, but also drastically reduces bureaucratic effort.

The future of time tracking also offers a lot of potential for even smarter, automated systems. With AI, smart devices, and seamless integrations, time tracking is becoming increasingly efficient and error-free. Construction sites become not only more productive but also safer and better organized. Companies that invest in these technologies have a clear competitive edge and are prepared for the digital future of construction.

The construction industry is changing – don’t stand still. Try Valoon now and experience how easy and efficient digital construction management can be. 🚀

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