Build, own, operate and transfer (BOOT)
A build, own, operate and transfer (BOOT) contract is a project delivery model that can be used for large projects developed through Public Private Partnerships (PPPs). The term 'Public Private Partnerships' refers to a very broad range of partnerships in which the public and private sectors collaborate for some mutual benefit.
Under a BOOT contract, a private organisation undertakes to complete a large project, such as a complex infrastructure project, which they are granted a concession to finance and build by a public sector partner, typically a government department. The public partner may provide limited funding or other benefits (such as tax exemptions) but the private organisation accepts most of the risks.
The private organisation is then granted the right to own, maintain and operate the project for a set period of time, during which they can draw fees from users of the asset. Once the time period has elapsed, the control of the project transfers to the public sector partner, either freely or for a fee that is stipulated in the original contract. It is common for the time period to be several decades in the case of big infrastructure projects that carry a lot of construction and operational risk.
There are a number of other, related forms of procurement, which allocate rights and responsibilities differently:
- Build, operate, transfer (BOT), whereby the private organisation does not own the project as an asset, they merely receive a concession to operate it for a period of time. See Build operate transfer BOT.
- Build lease transfer (BLT), in which the public sector partner leases the project from the contractor and also takes responsibility for its operation.
- Design, build, finance and operate (DBFO), which also assigns the design responsibility to the private organisation.
For more information see: Procurement routes.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Build lease transfer BLT.
- Build operate transfer BOT.
- Complex project.
- Concession.
- Concession agreement.
- Design build finance and operate.
- Design Build Finance Transfer (DBFT).
- Design build operate (DBO).
- Design build operate maintain DBOM.
- Major Projects Authority.
- PFI vs PPP.
- Private Finance Initiative.
- Procurement route.
- Public Private Partnership.
- Public procurement.
- Renovate, operate, transfer (ROT).
- Risk allocation.
Featured articles and news
We're expanding our collaborative mission by launching DB Intelligence, an exclusive market research advisory panel. Built environment professionals can now get paid to share their expertise on industry trends, products and services.
Panel members receive direct financial incentives for participating in research projects like short surveys, 1-2-1 interviews and focus groups. Register today to shape the future of the construction sector.
Building Control Independent Panel final report
A precis of a key report led by Dame Hackitt with full recommendations and link to the government response.
Guide to ISO 19650 for Architecture Firms (2026)
A user gives their low down.
A UK training and membership provider for mould remediation professionals.
Building Safety recap April, 2026
A short and longer run-through of the month, with links to further information and sources.
CIAT May 2026 briefing.
Independent NSI and BAFE study exploring how organisations are changing the way they buy fire safety services.
From medieval scribes to modern word art.
ECA welcomes crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy, whilst CIOB seek fixed cladding removal timeframes.
Cyber Security in the Built Environment
Protecting projects, data, and digital assets: A CIOB Academy TIS.
Managing competence in the built environment
ITFG publishes new industry guide on how to meet the ICC principles.
The UK's campaign to reduce noise pollution: Mythbusting, articles and topic guides.