Which JCT contract should I use?

It depends on project size, complexity and who carries design responsibility. Minor Works for simple projects, Intermediate for mid-size, Standard Building Contract for larger traditional procurement, and Design & Build where the contractor takes design responsibility.

Is a JCT contract legally binding?

Yes. Once signed by both parties, a JCT contract is a legally binding agreement governed by English law (or Scots law for the Scottish variants).

Guide

JCT Contracts Explained

Q: What is a JCT contract?

A JCT contract is a standard-form building contract published by the Joint Contracts Tribunal and used widely across the UK construction industry.

A plain-English guide to the main JCT contract forms and how to pick the right one for your UK building project.

What is a JCT contract?

The Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT) publishes the most widely used family of standard-form building contracts in the UK. Each form is designed for a different project size and procurement route, and most UK building projects use a JCT contract either as published or with bespoke amendments.

The main JCT contracts

JCT Minor Works Building Contract (MW)

For small, straightforward projects with a low contract value and simple design. MWD includes contractor's designed portion.

JCT Intermediate Building Contract (IC / ICD)

For projects of moderate complexity with detailed specifications. ICD adds a contractor's designed portion.

JCT Standard Building Contract (SBC)

For larger traditional procurement where design is largely complete before the contractor is appointed. Available in With Quantities, Without Quantities and With Approximate Quantities variants.

JCT Design and Build Contract (DB)

For projects where the contractor takes responsibility for completing the design. Common in commercial work and increasingly in residential.

JCT Home Owner / Occupier contracts

Simpler forms intended for use directly between a homeowner and a builder on small domestic projects.

Clauses to watch in any JCT

Amendments to payment terms and pay-less notice mechanics
Design responsibility splits in D&B and Contractor Designed Portion
Variations: instruction, valuation and notification
Liquidated damages, extensions of time and relevant events
Insurance options (A, B or C) and any bespoke caps on liability
Termination grounds and consequences

Want your specific JCT contract checked?

Get a free AI-assisted JCT contract review from Everap — a plain-English risk snapshot before you sign.

Upload your JCT contract

This guide is general information, not legal advice.