The term 'without quantities' refers to a construction contract or tender documents that do not include specific measured quantities of the items of work identified by the drawings and specifications. It can be used on projects where it is not possible to prepare a bill of quantities (BOQ) at the time of tendering.
The employer must provide drawings together with a description of works, and either a specification or work schedules at tender stage. The project is generally not complex enough to require bills of quantities.
JCT contracts are known for being highly prescriptive. Although the standardised format may provide clarity, it can also limit flexibility. Each JCT contract is structured around a specific set of terms and clauses, which may not suit every project's unique needs or challenges.
Clause 4.11 – In the event of non-payment or non-compliance with the above-mentioned Clauses, the Contractor has the right to suspend works and the process for doing so is explained in this Clause.
The JCT Standard Building Contract is designed for large or complex construction projects where detailed contract provisions are needed. Standard Building Contracts are suitable for projects procured via the traditional or conventional method.
Contracts 'with quantities' are priced on the basis of drawings and firm bills of quantities. 'Without quantities' means a contract priced on the basis of drawings and usually another document, such as a specification or work schedules.
The JCT provides the customer with peace of mind, as they know that all eventualities are covered in the contract. Furthermore, the design ensures that the agreement provisions are comprehensive and cover most of the dangers surrounding the construction industry.
JCT contracts are written in complex legal language. This makes them difficult to understand without specialised knowledge. The problem with using complex language is that the meaning can be unclear to anyone without a legal background. This can lead to misunderstandings, especially during disputes.
The Standard JCT Contract is drafted to suit larger works, or works of a complex nature that involve a high degree of building services or specialist work and its drafting to include provisions allowing: for the contractor to design discrete parts of the works. works to be carried out in sections.
At a greater level of detail, JCT provides a number of subjective tests for determining if certain events give grounds for recompense to the contractor, whereas NEC generally relies on more objective tests.