Chapter 5: Establishing Effective Contracts

For many ground investigation specialists the conditions of contract is often the most scrutinised document in the procurement process. A well written, properly constructed and 'transparent' contract, is beneficial to all the parties involved with a ground investigation, and this section examines how this can be achieved. The section also signposts the most appropriate forms of contract for ground investigations. The NEC suite of contracts and ICC contract for ground investigation are discussed in some detail.

This section explains the purpose of a ground investigation contract, what should be included, and why contract specific provisions may be required for special areas of working (road and rail etc). Other forms of contract historically used in the ground investigation arena are discussed within this chapter, together with comments on their suitability or otherwise for use.