Category: Contracts & management
Prepared by Eng. Ahmed Fathy, Projects Manager ·
Definition
A nominated subcontractor is a specialist chosen by the owner or consultant, such as the lift or facade contractor, whom the main contractor must engage and manage, often against a provisional sum in the BOQ.
Why it matters on a project
It secures quality for specialist work, but raises questions of liability for delay and defects, which the contract must set out clearly.
Common mistake
A main contractor accepting a nominated subcontractor without payment and delay terms that match the main contract.
Frequently asked questions
Can the contractor refuse a nominated subcontractor?
Many contracts allow objection on reasonable grounds; details depend on the contract.
Who bears the nominated subcontractor's delay?
The contract decides, so the subcontract terms must match the main contract.
Related terms
- SubcontractorA contractor who carries out part of the works for the main contractor.
- Provisional sumAn amount included in the contract for work not yet defined, spent on actuals.
- FIDIC contractsInternational standard forms of engineering contract defining rights, notices, claims and change management.
- Back-chargeDeducting the cost of work the main contractor did on a subcontractor's behalf.
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