The NEC4: Engineering and Construction Short Subcontract (ECSS) is for appointing works subcontractors where the main works contractor has been engaged under an NEC4 Engineering and Construction Contract (ECC) or an NEC4 Engineering and Construction Short Contract (ECSC).
The ECSS is for subcontracts which are relatively easy to manage, comprise straightforward work and impose only low risks on both the contractor and subcontractor. It uses a price list, with payments simply made for completion of priced items, or for quantities provided at the agreed rates, or for a combination of both.
Containing the same definitions and procedures as the ECC and ECSC contracts, the ECSS provides back-to-back protection for the main contractor and consistency of approach throughout the supply chain. It can include any level of design.
The document provides everything you need to prepare, tender and manage an NEC4 ECSS subcontract, including forms for the contract data, price list, scope and site information.
Background
The NEC4 ECSS is part of the NEC4 suite of collaborative, flexible and clearly written contracts for built environment procurement. The suite has a global track record for delivering all kinds and sizes of building and infrastructure projects on time, on budget and to the highest environmental and quality standards.
As with all NEC4 contracts, the parties to an ECSS are required to act in a ‘spirit of mutual trust and co-operation’ and give early warnings of anything that could affect time, cost or quality so it can be mitigated without delay. Change is dealt with by a fast and fair compensation event process which, together with a continually updated and agreed programme, ensures there are no surprises at completion.