NEC Contract Option E
NEC Contract Option E
Cost reimbursable contract Option E is a cost reimbursable contract which manages the project
where costs cannot be precisely determined from the outset and the contractor is reimbursed for
the costs of the works completed. This Option places the highest allocation of risk with the
Employer; the Contractor is paid all its costs and expenses in undertaking the works.
Transparency is achieved through the requirement of the contractor to provide detailed records of
all costs incurred to pay the contractor, and it allows the client to closely monitor project
expenditure. Flexibility within this option allows the scope of work to evolve as the project
progresses and allows variations to be amended.
These are the key clauses typically relevant for an NEC Contract Option E. Each project may
have variations depending on the specific project requirements and legal environment, so it is
important to consult the contract itself and seek legal or professional advice for project-specific
interpretation.
The NEC contract typically follows a clear, modular structure, with various sections and clauses.
Here’s a breakdown of how the clauses are typically structured:
These are the foundational clauses that govern the overall framework of the contract.
These clauses define the mutual responsibilities and rights of the Employer and Contractor.
Clause 10: Employer's and Contractor’s Obligations
Outlines the general obligations of both parties, including the responsibility of the
Employer to provide the necessary information, and the Contractor’s responsibility to
perform the works.
Clause 11: Works Information
Describes the scope and technical details of the work the Contractor must undertake.
Clause 12: Contractor’s Design (if applicable)
Specifies the Contractor’s responsibilities if part of the project involves design.
These clauses cover how payments will be made to the Contractor, including cost
reimbursement.
This section deals with the completion of the project and related timelines.
Clause 40: Early Warning
Outlines how the parties must identify and respond to potential problems that could affect
project timelines or costs.
Clause 60: Changes to the Works
Defines the procedure for managing variations or changes to the scope of work and how
these will be reflected in cost and time.
Clause 70: Delay Damages
Specifies any potential penalties for delays in completing the work, if applicable (though
in a cost-reimbursable contract this may be less relevant unless otherwise specified).
Clause 80: Final Account
Describes the process for finalizing costs at the end of the project, including how costs
are confirmed and settled.
These clauses define how the contract addresses unexpected risks or changes that may require
adjustments to cost and time.
7. Miscellaneous Provisions
Other clauses that don’t necessarily fit into the above categories but are necessary for
completeness.
Additional Documents
While not strictly clauses, the following supporting documents are often part of the contract: