Force account work
Force account work, also known as work-by-force account, or time and material work, is a payment method for construction work where there is no existing agreement on cost.
In this case, the works are undertaken with the understanding that the client will pay the contractor according to the actual cost of their labour, materials, and equipment, with an additional percentage for overheads and a mark-up for profit.
It can be used when the contractor and client are unable to agree a unit price or lump sum amount, or if these methods are impracticable, for example, when the quantities and scope of work are unknown at the time of tendering, or for a change order requiring extra, unforeseen work identified after construction has already begun.
Force account work can permit the early start of construction work in critical areas, and can save staff time and overhead costs that would be required for contract package preparation, bidding, evaluation and the award of contracts.
However, it can leave both parties open to unknown costs. The client may not know the quantity, or rates of the works required, and the contractor may agree to very broad terms such as 'all costs' which can leave them struggling to make claims later in the project.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.
Licensing construction in the UK
As the latest report and proposal to licence builders reaches Parliament.
Building Safety Alliance golden thread guidance
Extensive excel checklist of information with guidance document freely accessible.
Fair Payment Code and other payment initiatives
For fair and late payments, need to work together to add value.
Pre-planning delivery programmes and delay penalties
Proposed for housebuilders in government reform: Speeding Up Build Out.
High street health: converting a building for healthcare uses
The benefits of health centres acting as new anchor sites in the high street.