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
Homes, landlords. tenants and the new housing standards
What will it all mean?
The Architectural Technology podcast: Where it's AT
Catch-up on the latest episodes.
Edmundson Apprentice of the Year award 2026
Entries now open for this Electrical Contractors' Association award.
Traditional blue-grey slate from one of the oldest and largest UK slate quarries down in Cornwall.
There are plenty of sources with the potential to be redeveloped.
Change of use legislation breaths new life into buildings
A run down on Class MA of the General Permitted Development Order.
Solar generation in the historic environment
Success requires understanding each site in detail.
Level 6 Design, Construction and Management BSc
CIOB launches first-ever degree programme to develop the next generation of construction leaders.
Open for business as of April, with its 2026 prospectus and new pipeline of housing schemes.
The operational value of workforce health
Keeping projects moving. Incorporating unplanned absence and the importance of health, in operations.
A carbon case for indigenous slate
UK slate can offer clear embodied carbon advantages.
Costs and insolvencies mount for SMEs, despite growth
Construction sector under insolvency and wage bill pressure in part linked to National Insurance, says report.
The place for vitrified clay pipes in modern infrastructure
Why vitrified clay pipes are reclaiming their role in built projects.
Research by construction PR consultancy LMC published.
Roles and responsibilities of domestic clients
ACA Safety in Construction guide for domestic clients.
Fire door compliance in UK commercial buildings
Architect and manufacturer gives their low down.