Source: https://www.quantsurv.com/library/glossary/early-warning
Content format: Markdown version of the public page.
Content reviewed: 2026-10-10

# Early warning

In an NEC contract, a notice either side gives as soon as it sees something that could raise the cost or delay the job.

by [Jack Butler-Kettle](<https://www.quantsurv.com/about#jack-butler-kettle>) · About 1 min readShare

## Further detail

Read this alongside [the NEC Dictionary of Terms](<https://www.neccontract.com/resources/dictionary>).

An early warning identifies a developing risk so the parties can consider measures to reduce its effects. Under NEC it has a management purpose distinct from compensation-event notification. Giving one does not automatically satisfy every other notice requirement or establish an entitlement to extra payment.

Record the risk, possible effects and proposed response. Our [Main-contract and subcontract administration support](<https://www.quantsurv.com/quantity-surveying?service=%2Fquantity-surveying%2Fcontract-management#client-types>) service keeps risk actions and separate entitlement notices distinct.

## Sources

1.  [NEC Dictionary of Terms](<https://www.neccontract.com/resources/dictionary>). NEC Contracts.

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