JCT Contracts Discovery 2026

The education and learning module from the Joint Contracts Tribunal

JCT Contracts Discovery is designed for teachers and students involved in the study of JCT contracts and contract procedures in the construction industry.

It can be used by education providers for teaching about JCT contracts either as a stand-alone topic, or as part of a broader study of the construction process and construction contracts.

The 2026 version of JCT Contracts Discovery has been substantially revised from the 2018 version, updated to refer to the JCT 2024 Edition of Contracts, and including new content and chapters.

JCT Contracts Discovery provides:

• a general understanding of the JCT contract range
• a review of procurement methods and appropriate uses for JCT contract forms
• guidance on how to set up a contract using a JCT contract form
• an understanding of the arrangement of JCT contract forms, including layout, style and the language used
• an understanding of the primary obligations of the employer and the contractor
• a review of the roles played by contract administrators, quantity surveyors and others
• a review of how JCT contracts deal with key aspects of the contracting process, including control of the works (quality, time), payment, variations, insurances and security documentation, third party rights and collateral warranties, termination and dispute resolution.

JCT Contracts Discovery references various contract forms in the JCT range. Most commonly, reference is made to the provisions in JCT’s Standard Building Contract (SBC) and Design and Build Contract (DB). JCT Contracts Discovery is not intended as a comprehensive guide to any contract form in the JCT range. Details specific to each individual contract are not included and reference should always be made to the contract form and its accompanying guide or guidance notes.