FIDIC Contracts Essentials for Construction Professionals
The Red, Yellow and Silver books explained — risk allocation, engineer's role, notices and claims in one clear read.
FIDIC contracts are the international backbone of construction. Understanding their risk allocation logic is more valuable than memorising clause numbers.
Which book, when?
- Red Book — Employer's design, contractor builds. Balanced risk.
- Yellow Book — Contractor's design & build. Design risk shifts to contractor.
- Silver Book — EPC/turnkey. Most risk on contractor; used for lump-sum certainty.
The Engineer's dual role
The Engineer both administers the contract and, in specific clauses, acts as an impartial determiner. Confusing the two triggers disputes.
Notices & time bars
Clause 20 time bars are strict. Missing a 28-day notice can invalidate a legitimate claim.
Claim substantiation
A well-substantiated claim tells a factual story with contemporaneous records — programmes, correspondence, minutes and cost records.
Recommended course
Our FIDIC Certified Contract Manager Exam Prep course covers the 1999 and 2017 suites with real-world scenarios.
Contracts & Commercial Management
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