Source: https://www.quantsurv.com/library/glossary/pre-action-protocol
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Content reviewed: 2026-10-10

# Pre-action protocol

In England and Wales, the construction pre-action protocol sets steps normally expected before court proceedings.

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

## Further detail

Read this alongside [the Pre-Action Protocol for Construction and Engineering Disputes](<https://www.justice.gov.uk/courts/procedure-rules/civil/protocol/prot_ced>).

The construction and engineering protocol in England and Wales promotes proportionate exchange of information and consideration of settlement before court proceedings. It contains exceptions, including certain enforcement or urgent proceedings. It is not the timetable for adjudication and does not remove limitation or other live deadlines.

Get specialist advice before commencing proceedings. A [Claim viability review](<https://www.quantsurv.com/express-services/claim-viability-review>) can help organise the commercial dispute and evidence for that discussion.

## Sources

1.  [Pre-Action Protocol for Construction and Engineering Disputes, second edition](<https://www.justice.gov.uk/courts/procedure-rules/civil/protocol/prot_ced>). Ministry of Justice.

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