CONTRACT REVIEW
Trade-focused analysis and document summary
DEMO MODE
Northbridge Plaza Fit-Out — M&E Package (Demo)
Executive Summary
Northbridge Plaza Fit-Out — M&E Subcontract (Demo Deed)
RecommendationNegotiate Before Signing
Client
Northbridge Build Co. (Main Contractor)
Contractor
Harbourline MEP Ltd (Sub-Contractor)
Contract value
£412,000 (Sub-Contract Sum)
Risk rating
UNACCEPTABLEKey Contract Details
(Subcontractor Focus)| Detail | Value | Explanation | Reference (Page / Clause) |
|---|---|---|---|
Contract Type (JCT/NEC) | Bespoke Northbridge Sub-Contract (demo deed) with Main Contract Flow-Down | This is a custom demo contract form (not a standard JCT/NEC). Flow-down can import risks from the main contract. Ask to see the main contract terms before signing. | |
Start Date | 18/10/25 (Commencement Date in Table) | Start date is stated, but the programme can be revised. Confirm how you get cost/time if instructions change the sequence. | |
Completion Date | TBC / inconsistent drafting in particulars | If completion is not fixed, you may be held to a later instruction without fair adjustment. Push for a fixed date or a clear mechanism. | |
Contract Value Type | Lump sum with re-measurement capability | Clarify what triggers re-measurement and how variations are valued. Ensure exclusions/assumptions are clearly recorded. | |
Retention | 5% | Retention is standard, but check release timing (e.g., half at PC, half at end of defects). Try to negotiate earlier release. | |
Payment Terms | 45 days from valuation date (Pay Less Notice regime) | 45 days is longer than the standard 30 days. If you accept it, price the financing cost or negotiate shorter terms. | |
Liquidated Damages (LADs) | Linked to main contract (rate not clearly stated in subcontract) | If LADs flow down, you may face high late damages. Ask for the LAD rate and ensure EOT and entitlement are fair. | |
Design Responsibility & Warranties | Design responsibility for M&E + 12-year collateral warranties | This extends liability beyond defects. Check PI insurance, warranty wording, and any fitness-for-purpose language. | |
Defects Period (when it runs from) | 24 months from Practical Completion | 24 months is longer than typical 12 months. Consider the cost of call-backs and negotiate to 12 months where possible. |
Important points to note
Summary of what matters most before you signReference
(Page / Clause)
1
Payment is 45 days from valuation — longer than typical. Consider cashflow and financing cost.
2
No liability cap found — exposure could exceed contract value.
3
Completion date is unclear / TBC — risk of programme pressure and LADs without certainty.