Design, build, manage contractor
In a typical design and build (D&B) procurement, the main contractor is appointed to design and construct the works (as opposed to a traditional contract, where the client appoints consultants to design the development and then a contractor is appointed to construct the works).
In a design, build and manage contract (DBM), the contractor – in addition to shouldering the risks of design and construction – also manages the construction process, sometimes providing operational services over and above building maintenance, such as supplying operational staff and cleaning.
The DBM may also appoint (and contracting with) different works contractors to see the completion of various parts of the project. The contractor therefore is also a project manager.
The client (or their representative) will generally appoint the DBM contractor early-on in the design process so that their experience can be used to improve the cost and buildability of proposals as they develop, as well as to advise on packaging and the risks of interfaces.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Approved contractor.
- CIS contractors and CIS sub-contractors.
- Commercial manager.
- Construction contract.
- Construction manager.
- Contractor's working schedule.
- Design and manage procurement route.
- Due diligence when selecting contractors or subcontractors.
- Management contractor.
- Principal contractor.
- Procurement route.
- Work package contractor.
- Works contractor.
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.
Planning condition discharge in England and Wales
A brief exoplanation from a building compliance expert, with further links.
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
Guidance for dealing with element of building fabric control that have increasing importance.
Shading for housing, a design guide
From the Good Homes Alliance and British Blind and Shutter Association.
UK Standard Skills Classification (SSC)
A shared framework for describing skills needs.
Social media ban consultation comes to close
CIOB urges UK Government to consider social media’s role in careers guidance in ban debate.
The latest of eight Skills England apprenticeship units
The addition of battery manufacturing welcomed by ECA with a warning about the risks of fast-tracked apprenticeship units.
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.
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.
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.




















