In addition to ACE contracts, we also offer iCC and FIDIC contracts through our online store. Regardless of the value or complexity of the services ordered and provided, the business case is essential for the clarity of these services and a framework for the proper allocation of risks and responsibilities between the parties to an agreement. Following its release, ACE will host a series of regional events in 2017 to familiarize the industry with the new service agreements and plans. All agreements contain a clause to protect the employees of the consulting company from direct claims by the customer. This is apparent from Merrett v. Babb (see Building, 17 August 2001). ACE establishes and markets model contracts for use in construction and engineering projects. In addition to ACE agreements, it also sells FIDIC agreements, infrastructure contractual conditions (ICC) and EIT contracts. ACE has consistently encouraged the use of standard terms of engagement to address these issues.

It also drew attention to the dangers associated with the inclusion of contractual terms by reference. Whatever the reason the parties think they understand what their agreement means, it is quite possible, if tested, that they are very different from what they thought. This can be costly, both financially and in terms of the day-to-day relationship between consultant and client. New ACE agreements will be published around the year, following an in-depth review of the current agreements in order to produce “more user-friendly” documents that will be acceptable to consultants, public and private authorities and contractors.