NEC4 Engineering and Construction Contract: Frequently Asked Questions

NEC4 Engineering and Construction Contract: Frequently Asked Questions is a valuable resource that provides a solid foundation for understanding and using the NEC4 Engineering and Construction Contract (ECC). It offers a concise, accessible overview, answering many of the common queries that arise when encountering the ECC for the first time and helping readers navigate the contract with confidence.

Logically structured to follow the layout of the ECC, the book is designed for easy navigation and quick referencing of specific sections. It includes chapters on each of the core clauses, main option and secondary option clauses, equipping readers with a comprehensive understanding of the NEC4 framework. Authored by a seasoned expert with over 30 years’ experience in this area, the book draws on real industry questions and scenarios. It will support better decision making and assist users in pro-actively following ECC processes and procedures.

NEC4 Engineering and Construction Contract: Frequently Asked Questions is ideal for a diverse audience, including contractors, subcontractors, clients, ECC Project Managers, and construction solicitors, and particularly beneficial for those with limited contract knowledge or experience.

Andrea Rae is a construction law consultant and an expert serving on the NEC panel of consultants.

Andrea has over 30 years’ experience of working in the construction industry. Commencing work as a trainee quantity surveyor at the age of 18 and whilst working full time for a main contractor, she attained a bachelor’s degree in quantity surveying at Sheffield Hallam University. Once qualified, Andrea worked for various main contractors, gaining invaluable practical experience on construction sites and ascending through the ranks to commercial manager.

Andrea subsequently became a construction law consultant, initially specialising in dispute resolution and latterly contract drafting and contract advice. Andrea attained a masters degree in construction law and dispute resolution at Leeds Beckett University and was awarded the Keating Chambers Prize for achieving the highest grade in her cohort in 2017.

Andrea was also appointed as a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators in 2017. After many years of mainly working with other popular standard forms of contract, Andrea spent a considerable number of years working predominantly with the NEC suite of contracts. This included advising clients on contract selection, contract drafting and providing contract advice. As a result of this continuous and varied use, Andrea gained an exceptional level of knowledge together with a deep understanding of the full suite of NEC contracts.

Andrea was appointed as an expert on the NEC Panel of Consultants in January 2025 and continues to serve. As part of this role, Andrea assists with the development of training material and user guides for the NEC suite of contracts.