NEC publishes new practice note on X22 early contractor involvement

NEC has published a new practice note on using option X22 on early contractor involvement (ECI) in the NEC4 Engineering and Construction Contract (ECC) Option C (target contract with activity schedule) and Option E (cost reimbursable contract).

The advantages of using ECI prior to proceeding to the construction stage of a project are increasingly being recognised by clients and their suppliers. For clients who may be considering using ECI for the first time and who wish to obtain further guidance before doing so, there are some key issues to consider. These include how to select a contractor when a firm price is not provided at the appointment stage and how to establish the construction cost before starting the construction stage.

Most advantageous offer

Published in February 2022, the new practice note considers these and other issues that need to be taken into account at the procurement stage, and gives advice on how to establish the most advantageous offer. It provides guidance on what should be included in the pricing information, how to manage submissions in stage one and how to agree a price for the construction stage.