We have found a builder for our loft conversion and he uses a FMB contract. However, our home insurance is asking whether we will be signing a JCT contract. Could someone explain the difference between the two? Thanks so much
FMB is not as comprehensive as the JCT, but as far as I know, JCT is way more common and more known. I don't see a reason why the builder wouldn't want to use a JCT if you ask them to.
Kay is right, FMB is a lot simpler and uses less technical legal jargon. JCT is the most commonly used but FMB is often used by builders for lower value, simpler projects. That said, JCT also have a range which caters for projects of lower value like the JCT Minor Works for example. You could ask your builder to use a different contract and you could also query with you insurer if they will support the use of the FMB.
Kay Moden
FRESH Architects
Rhian FoleyOriginal Author