Partnering form will ‘cut disputes’

It is designed to save time and money on reactive maintenance jobs in the private and public sectors by imposing strict deadlines and encouraging collaboration between all the parties involved.

The contract, known as TPC2005, was drafted by City law firm Trowers & Hamlins, and published by the Association of Consultant Architects.

Andrew Vickery, partner at Trowers & Hamlins and co-author of the TPC2005, said: “The contract allows the role of the QS to be more creative, whilst they can still advise on processes and procedures.

“The contract sets up a framework within which the parties can discuss the evolution of ways of working and more effective pricing than just those based on schedules of rates. It should mean that arbitration can be cut out.”

He said the contract was drawn up in response to demands from clients, ranging from small housing associations to large London borough councils.

The QS can be more creative, but still advise on processes and procedures

Andrew Vickery

Welwyn Hatfield Council is trialling the contract on £81m worth of repairs maintenance. The council’s district auditor “has applauded many examples of good practice, including increased rental income of over £120,000 in the first year and dramatic reductions in lead-times before work commences on site”, according to a statement from Trowers & Hamlins.

Sheffield City Council is also using the contract for a £640m programme of maintenance on libraries, schools and other public buildings.

Trowers & Hamlins claims that repairs and maintenance account for 50% of construction costs in the UK. It said that in the private sector, property maintenance makes up about 29% or £24bn, of annual construction spending.

Partnering is a collaborative form of working that challenges the construction industry’s traditional assumptions of conflict between client and contractors.