CIOB Technical Publication: Pre-construction services agreement

[edit] About the publication

This Technical Information Sheet offers a clear and comprehensive overview of Pre-construction Services agreements (PCSAs), what they are, when they should be used, and the advantages they bring to projects. It explains how PCSAs differ from other forms of agreement, such as letters of intent. It further explores associated risks and considerations, supported by case studies that offer practical insight.

PCSAs can be used in both typical construction and infrastructure projects. When and why to use a PCSA is explored and detail is provided on the key elements that make up the agreement. Risks and considerations are highlighted and case studies are included to provide insight and real-world examples. See also Pre-construction services agreement PCSA.

[edit] Contents

• Introduction
• When to use a PCSA and understanding the relevant procurement route
• Why use a PCSA?
• Key elements of a PCSA
• Risks and considerations in a PCSA
• Case Studies
• Conclusion

[edit] About the Author

Cesare McArdle is a Partner at full-service law firm Herrington Carmichael LLP, based in Farnborough. Cesare specialises in and regularly advises clients on all aspects of construction law and construction contracts and has done for over a decade. Cesare has advised those at all stages of construction projects (from funder through to consultants and everything in between) and across various sectors and projects including football stadiums, film studios and Higher Risk Buildings.

Ryan McCall is a Chartered Construction Manager with over 15 years’ experience spanning façade remediation, project coordination and construction delivery. As Project Manager and Façade Specialist at MRP Investment & Development Ltd, Ryan leads the delivery of façade remediation and new-build schemes across the UK and Ireland, with a focus on projects governed by Building Safety Act (BSA). Ryan holds an MSc in Construction and Project Management from Queen’s University Belfast and has extensive practical experience in managing PCSAs from contractor and consultant engagement to design coordination, technical feasibility assessments, and the preparation of programme and procurement strategies.

[edit] Only available electronically

This Technical Information Sheet provides a detailed overview of what a Pre-Construction Services Agreement (PCSA) is, the situations in which it is used, the reasons why it can be useful and how it differs from other agreements, such as letters of intent, in its purpose.

PCSAs can be used in both typical construction and infrastructure projects. When and why to use a PCSA is explored and detail is provided on the key elements that make up the agreement. Risks and considerations are highlighted and case studies are included to provide insight and real-world examples.

CIOB members can access Technical Information Sheets for FREE and receive a 20% discount on our Codes and Guides. Your discount codes are in the members’ portal. If you experience difficulties accessing the portal, contact ciob.org.uk lis@ciob.org.uk.

This article appears on the CIOB Academy website as "Pre-Construction Services Agreement" dated 7 November 2025.

--CIOB

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• Pre-construction services agreement PCSA.
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