Contractual guidance due to severe weather and flooding events

The Accord has put together a contractual guidance for those have been impacted by the recent weather events.

This guidance is focused on NZS3910: 2013 General Conditions of Contract (3910) and while it does not take into account any special conditions that may have been agreed, the general principles and approach reflect good practice and may be relevant to projects or contracts on similar or modified terms.

Contractual guidance - severe weather and flooding events [PDF, 248 KB]

Background to the guidance document

Recent severe weather and flooding events in Aotearoa New Zealand have significantly impacted people, communities, and organisations. These events have also impacted construction activity in the affected regions, with ripple effects in other regions due to resource sharing. Initial focus is on recovery and the Construction Accord seeks to provide guidance to support the sector on key steps and points to consider in relation to the contracts for projects that have been impacted as a result of these events.

The Accord encourages open and transparent dialogue between clients, suppliers and their supply chain partners to try and achieve the best outcome for the project. All parties taking the appropriate actions in a collaborative and constructive manner will help avoid disputes.

Recognising that the impact of these events will continue to unfold over the coming weeks and months The Accord will seek to update or provide further guidance when necessary.

Consulting with a wide range of stakeholders, Government clients, legal and industry bodies, The Accord has put together this contractual guidance for those have been impacted by the recent weather events.

Last updated: 13 February 2023