Free Construction Contract Guides for New Zealand

Can NZ contractors recover fuel cost increases under NZS 3910? This guide covers fluctuations clauses, change in law, the National Fuel Plan, and how to manage risk across the subcontract chain.

NZS 3910, NZS 3916, NZS 3902 or SA 2017 — which NZ construction contract is right for your project? This guide compares all four by project type, risk profile and delivery method.

How do you identify, price, document and submit variations under NZS 3910? This practical guide covers what counts as a variation, how to claim time and cost.

What is the Defects Liability Period under NZS 3910? When does it start, who is responsible, how is retention handled, and what are the most common mistakes? Practical guide for NZ construction.

NZS 3910:2023 updates nearly every clause of the standard. This guide covers all 8 major changes including new roles, target cost pricing, liability caps and the final account process.1 of 4.

What does NZS 3910:2023 mean for principals? New obligations, early warning duties, risk allocation changes and the requirement to nominate a Principal's Representative explained. 2 of 4.

How does NZS 3910:2023 affect contractors? From target cost pricing and design obligations to the new CA and Independent Certifier roles - here's what changed and what it means for you. 3 of 4.

The Engineer to the Contract is gone. NZS 3910:2023 introduces a Contract Administrator and Independent Certifier. This guide explains both roles, their responsibilities and key differences. 4 of 4.

The CCA applies to contractors, subcontractors, developers, engineers, architects and more. Find out if it applies to you and what your obligations are under NZ construction law. 1 of 4.

A payment claim that doesn't meet CCA requirements can be deemed invalid. This guide covers mandatory wording, Form 1, correct service, and everything else you need to get it right. 2 of 4.

Fail to issue a valid payment schedule in time and you become automatically liable for the full amount claimed. Learn exactly what a payment schedule must contain under the CCA. 3 of 4.

Adjudication is fast, binding and more cost-effective than going to court. Learn when you can use it, how the process works, and your right to suspend work under the CCA. 4 of 4.

A practical plain-English guide to NZS 3910:2013 - the most widely used construction contract in NZ. Covers all 15 clauses including payment, variations, defects, disputes and the Engineer's role.

The SA 2017 is NZ's standard form subcontract. This guide explains every section - including what subcontractors need to check before signing, how payment claims work, and how disputes are resolved.

NZS 3916 is NZ's standard form design and build contract. The contractor takes on both design and construction. This guide covers every clause, key differences from NZS 3910, and what to watch for.

NZS 3902 is the plain-English contract for housing, alterations and small building projects in NZ. This guide covers what both parties must do, how payment works, and when to use it.