Preliminary contracts in the construction industry
In law, a preliminary contract typically aims to prevent the parties to a contract from entering (at a later stage) into a similar legal arrangement with third parties. In order to confirm that that they will not do so, parties will sign a preliminary contract.
Preliminary contracts are more common in Europe when buying land or property, especially when reserving property off-plan. Buying off-plan can be an uncertain process as a buyer commits to a property purely on the basis of drawings (plans) before any construction has taken place.
Preliminary contracts serve as a formal confirmation of reservation and may have more legal power than a deposit on its own. But they are formulated to secure the commitment of buyers rather than compelling developers to stick to their side of the bargain. Furthermore, a preliminary contract may not compel a developer to sell the property that is the subject of the contract.
Prior to signing the preliminary contract, potential buyers are advised to check how far the development has progressed and whether the developer or contractor is still in a position to start construction work. A further point to note is whether the work (if started) is in accordance with the plans. Some large developers can provide buyers with a degree of certainty but this may not be the case with all developers.
Preliminary contracts can be useful to potential buyers but they are not a full confirmation of the right to get what has been reserved.
NB The term 'preliminary contract' may also be used to refer to a contract for preliminary works, such as site preparation, setting out, construction of access roads and so on.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Agreement.
- Bespoke construction contract
- Construction contract conditions
- Contract documents for construction
- Contractual obligation.
- Contractual right.
- Core clause.
- Intermediate building contract
- JCT
- JCT Construction management contract
- Letter of intent.
- Lump sum contract
- NEC3
- Standard form of contract
Featured articles and news
Download your free guide.
Four new types of prior approval for solar developments
Online Planning Portal application types from 5 September.
Election fails to spark construction industry revival
Contract awards and planning; post election.
Making diversity and inclusion easy for SMEs
The CIOB tool for companies with limited resources.
Sustainable Futures: Redefining Retrofit for Net Zero Living
BSRIA Briefing 2024, initial speakers announced.
Looking back at the UK's first Passivhaus leisure centre
Reflections on St Sidwell’s Point with CIAT.
A-Level results and electrical apprenticeships
Electrical Skills Index highlights areas with skills shortages.
One of the world's more unusual drive-throughs.
A quick introduction.
Hadrian's Wall Path and the national trails
The trails are heritage assets in their own right.
Articles on timely advice and hydraulic lime.
Building Designers Association of Australia
CIAT and BDAA sign Memorandum of Understanding.
Built Environment Inclusive partners issue statement committed to inclusion.
Building regulation requirements can have unintended consequences.
CIOB announces 2024/25 vice president
Sustainability champion Professor Saul Humphrey.
Accelerating towards a net-zero built environment.