The JCT Home Owner Contract — the plain-English read
The short answer: the JCT Home Owner Contracts are standard-form building contracts written for residential work — they fix the problems of verbal agreements: scope, price, stages, retention, and a disputes clause. If your builder offers one, that is a good sign; read four clauses before signing.
REVIEWED BY: Sean McNamara on 2026-09-03
The four clauses that matter
1. The works and the price — what is included (drawings/attachments) and whether fixed or estimated (quote vs estimate). 2. Payment stages — when each becomes due (completed work, not calendar dates) and the retention. 3. Variations — changes only in writing, signed by both. 4. Disputes resolution — the clause names the route if things go wrong (negotiation, then adjudication/court). Read it with adjudication vs small claims in mind.
If your builder won't use any written contract
Insist on a written quote with scope, price, stages, retention, start and duration — an email exchange covering those is a contract in substance (evidence guide). Refusal to paper a five-figure job is a screening signal.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Verified 2026-09-03.
Preparing a claim? EvidenceCanvas (Casewright) helps you organise your evidence and draft pre-action documents for the small claims track. It is not a law firm and does not give legal advice.
Reviewed by Sean McNamara · 2026-09-03 · Independent information directory — not legal advice.