Inspection clause

An inspection clause is a provision included in a construction contract that outlines the rights and responsibilities related to the inspection of the work being carried out. This clause ensures that the quality and progress of the construction work can be monitored and assessed at various stages of the project. The clause grants the client, their representatives, or designated third parties the right to inspect the construction work at specified intervals or upon request. This helps ensure that the work is being carried out in accordance with the contract specifications, standards, and regulations.

Standard form contracts in the UK, such as those from the Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT) or the New Engineering Contract (NEC), typically include detailed inspection clauses tailored to the specific needs of the project.

The clause may specify a schedule or particular stages at which inspections will take place. These stages often include key milestones in the project, such as foundation completion, structural framing, and final finishing. The contractor may be required to provide advance notice to the client or inspector before certain stages of work are completed, allowing inspections to be scheduled in a timely manner without causing delays. The clause usually guarantees inspectors reasonable access to the construction site and the necessary facilities to conduct thorough inspections. This includes access to relevant documentation, drawings, and safety equipment.

The clause may define the standards and criteria against which the work will be inspected. This often includes adherence to building regulations, and the specific requirements outlined in the contract documents. If defects or non-compliance issues are identified during an inspection, the clause will typically outline the process for documenting these issues, notifying the contractor, and rectifying the defects. This might include time frames for addressing the issues and the process for re-inspection.

Inspection results can influence payment schedules. For instance, if defects are found, payments may be withheld or adjusted until the issues are resolved. The clause may also outline the process for resolving disputes that arise from inspection findings, such as involving an independent third-party inspector or arbitrator.

The clause often includes provisions for a final inspection before the handover of the project. This ensures that all work has been completed to the client's satisfaction and meets the contractual requirements.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings

• Approved inspector.
• BREEAM Testing and inspecting building fabric.
• Building Control Performance Standard 6: Site inspection.
• Building regulations inspection.
• Defects.
• Health and safety inspector.
• Inspection.
• Opening up works for inspection and testing.
• Quality control.
• Remedial work.
• Schedule of defects.
• Snagging.
• Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist.
• Technical inspection.