The General Conditions of Contract for Construction Works, Second Edition 2010, is a pivotal document in the construction industry. It sets out the framework for contractual relationships between parties involved in construction projects and has become a widely used standard form of contract.
What are General Conditions of Contract?
General Conditions of Contract (GCC) are the set of standard terms and conditions that govern the contractual relationship between the parties involved in a construction project. It outlines the rights and obligations of the parties, which includes the contractor, employer, and engineer.
The GCC outlines key areas such as commencement and completion of works, payment procedures, variations to the scope of work, and dispute resolution mechanisms. It is important to note that the GCC is a separate document and forms a part of the larger contract agreement.
Second Edition 2010
The second edition of the GCC was published in 2010 by the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) in South Africa. It replaces the first edition, which was published in 1990.
The second edition is designed to align with modern construction practices, with a focus on the need for more efficient, effective, and transparent contractual relationships. The second edition features a number of amendments and additions, including the inclusion of provisions for the appointment of a «principal agent» to oversee the contract.
Key Features of Second Edition 2010
1. Standardized Forms
One of the key features of the GCC second edition is the introduction of standardized forms for contract administration. The standardized forms make it easier for parties to understand and apply the provisions of the contract.
2. Payment
The second edition introduced a new payment schedule, which includes a retention amount to ensure that the contractor completes all work satisfactorily.
3. Variations
The second edition includes provisions for variations to the scope of work. This allows for flexibility in the project requirements, but only after strict procedures are followed.
4. Dispute Resolution
The second edition features a new dispute resolution mechanism, which includes an adjudication process. This provides a more efficient and cost-effective way of resolving disputes between parties.
Conclusion
Overall, the General Conditions of Contract for Construction Works, Second Edition 2010, is an important document in the construction industry, providing a framework for contractual relationships between parties involved in construction projects. By standardizing forms, introducing new payment schedules, provisions for variations, and dispute resolution mechanisms, the second edition has modernized the document to align with current construction practices. It is essential that parties involved in construction projects are familiar with the document and understand its provisions to ensure a successful project outcome.
