JCT Standard Building Subcontract

Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT) contracts and subcontracts presently account for in excess of 80% of the contracts used in construction projects in England and Wales. They (together with the Scottish version of the JCT – the SBBC) are recognised as being the standard suite of contracts for construction works in the UK and they offer the security of tried and tested wording developed over years of use.

JCT published two versions of the Standard Building Subcontract in 2016. One is for use where the subcontractor is only to carry out, supply and install the works. The other is for use where the subcontractor is also required to design all or part of the works.

In addition to the obligations of the subcontractor in completing the works, both parties have obligations relating to time and money and variations, and when necessary, termination and dispute resolution.

This section is maintained by Peter Barnes of Blue Sky ADR Ltd.

Please note: JCT contracts are being updated progressively during 2024. This section will be updated in due course to reflect the new versions.