ECI (early contractor involvement): definition and example
Bringing a contractor in at the design stage, before the price is fixed.
By Jack Butler-Kettle · Updated
Guidance for England and Wales. Check the contract, amendments and facts that apply to your job.
What it means in practice
Read this alongside the NEC Dictionary of Terms.
Early contractor involvement brings construction input into planning or design before the full delivery arrangement is fixed. The early stage may cover buildability, procurement or pricing. Payment for that input, design responsibility and any commitment to later work should be expressly agreed.
Check the early-stage appointment on its own terms. A pre-signing contract review can identify obligations that could outlast an unsuccessful tender.
Worked example
The facts
A facade specialist is asked to advise on buildability before the construction package is awarded.
What happens
It agrees the early design-assistance scope and fee.
It records how its information may be used if another installer is appointed.
What this shows
Participation in design development does not itself guarantee the later construction appointment.
Sources
- NEC Dictionary of Terms. NEC Contracts.