Nomination in construction contracts
In the construction industry, the term nomination typically refers to the selection of a supplier or subcontractor by the client to carry out an element of the works. Nominated sub-contractors or suppliers are imposed on the main contractor after the main contractor has been appointed.
Nomination allows the client to have direct, separate negotiations with suppliers or sub-contractors and to feed their appointment and design input into the main contract after works by the main contractor have commenced.
The mechanism for nomination is an instruction in relation to a prime cost sum to which the main contractor is entitled to add mark up and attendance costs.
The contractual arrangements allowing nomination are very complicated, attempting to cover all possible eventualities both between the client and the main contractor and also between the main contractor and the nominated party.
For more information about specific nomination procedures see:
Nomination is still common on international projects, but some forms of contract in the UK no longer include provision for nomination because of the complexities involved. The use of named sub-contractors and named suppliers is generally considered to be a simpler alternative.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
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.