Works of building and civil engineering construction may be carried out under various contractual conditions, and the choice of the appropriate form of contract for any given project will depend on the nature of the project, the circumstances under which it is being carried out and the particular needs of the client.

On the whole, it is advantageous to use standard forms of contract which are recognized throughout the industry and have been drafted in the light of experience, as this ensure that right and obligations of the parties to the contract, and the duties of professional advisers are clearly defined.

By reason of his wide and varied experience the Quantity Surveyor, in conjunction with the Architect or Engineer, is able to advise his client on the right form of contract for the job.