Main contract
In a contract there is reciprocity of undertaking passing between the promisor and the promisee. The rights and obligations of the parties to the contract are created by the acts of agreement between them.
In the procurement of construction, contracts can be:
- Standard forms.
- Modified standard forms.
- Bespoke.
The ‘main contract’ is generally that which is awarded by the client (sometimes referred to as the employer) to the general contractor, or main contractor, whose tender has been accepted. The works required from the main contractor are set out in detail in tender documents, for which they have offered a price that has been accepted by the client.
Main contractors are often appointed under a traditional contract to construct a development for which the design has already been completed by consultants appointed by the client. However, under other forms of main contract, they might also provide part or all of the design, facilities management services, and even financing.
The organisations that the main contractor may appoint to carry out specific aspects of the works for them may be described as ‘subcontractors’, 'subbies', or simply as 'suppliers'. They will be appointed by the main contractor under subcontracts, and subcontractors may themselves appoint subcontractors under sub-subcontracts, and so on. See suppy chain for more information.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Heat pumps, vehicle chargers and heating appliances must be sold with smart functionality.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
New-style degrees set for reformed ARB accreditation
Following the ARB Tomorrow's Architects competency outcomes for Architects.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.