Main contractor’s discount
The term 'main contractor’s discount' (MCD) refers to a clause that can be included in building subcontracts to encourage main contractors to pay their subcontractors within the period of time specified in the contract.
A discount (typically, 2.5%) is deducted if the main contractor pays promptly, with the subcontractor able to recover the discount by adding an amount to the contract sum. The discount is applied to the value of works undertaken by the subcontractor and deducted from any application for payment. The discount should be clearly stated on invoices, applications and accounts.
MCD clauses were, until relatively recently, a feature of some standard forms of contract, but they have now generally been removed. They still however appear in some bespoke contracts, where they are not always related to prompt payment, but rather are seen as a management fee.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Your views needed - a strategy for the professions, trades and occupations.
Confronting competency, codes, capacity and costs.
The hidden risk in modern construction supply chains.
Construction Management, 10 June
24 months to 14: CITB launches accelerated apprenticeships.
Bridging the gap between clients and contractors
Concerns remain around contractor quality, capability, and delivery.
Construction Management, 10 June.
Heat pumps beat boilers in new home tests.
Building Safety Act implementation in Wales
CIAT to host industry panel on 26 June.
New and updated CLC building safety guidance.
New UK National Buildings Database.
Building Safety Wiki Interviews
Chief executive of the British Woodworking Federation.
Planning condition discharge in England and Wales
A brief explanation from a building compliance expert, with further links.

















Comments