Common NEC Programme Traps for M&E Contractors (And How to Avoid Them)
- Iryna Khomiakova
- Jun 9
- 2 min read
If you're an M&E contractor working under NEC contracts, chances are you’ve heard the phrase: “If it’s not on the programme, it doesn’t exist.” And in many NEC disputes — that’s exactly how it plays out.
The NEC contract is built on collaboration and proactive time management, but for many specialist contractors, the programme requirements can feel like a trap rather than a tool. If not handled correctly, the very thing designed to support your project delivery can undermine your commercial position.
At NEC Planning Solutions, we regularly see these common programme pitfalls — and more importantly, we help contractors avoid them.
Trap #1: Vague or Incomplete Programmes
Too often, M&E contractors submit a high-level programme that looks more like a wish list than a working plan. Critical tasks like design approval, procurement lead times, or off-site testing are glossed over — or missed entirely.
🛠 Fix it: Break down your scope into logical, traceable activities. Include design, procurement, installation, testing, commissioning — and link them clearly. The NEC expects a realistic and practicable plan that shows how you intend to do the work.
Trap #2: Not Updating the Programme Regularly
The NEC requires regular programme submissions — typically monthly. If you don't update it, your last accepted programme becomes the default comparison point. That’s bad news if delays or disruption occur after that version.
🛠 Fix it: Update your programme to reflect actual progress, revised completion forecasts, changes in sequence, and new early warnings. Show logic changes and reasons clearly. This builds credibility and puts you in control of the narrative.
Trap #3: No Strategy for Programme Rejection
It’s common for Project Managers to reject programmes — sometimes without clear reasons. Without a plan to handle this, contractors get stuck in limbo, losing time and leverage.
🛠 Fix it: The contract allows you to notify the PM if they don't respond within the period for reply. Push for written reasons for rejection. Don’t stop submitting updated programmes — even if previous versions are stuck in the queue.
Trap #4: Failing to Link Compensation Events to Programme Impact
Many contractors notify compensation events, but forget to demonstrate the time impact clearly in their updated programme. Without this, you may lose entitlement to time and money.
🛠 Fix it: Every CE should come with a programme narrative and logic-linked evidence. NEC is not interested in opinions — it wants visibility of impact.
The Payoff: Leverage and Clarity
When you take control of your programme under NEC:
You demonstrate professionalism
You strengthen your entitlement to time and cost
You build trust with the client team
And you avoid late-game disputes that drain resources
Final Word
At NEC Planning Solutions, we help M&E contractors transform their NEC programmes from tick-box exercises into commercially strategic tools. If you're struggling to get your programme accepted — or you’re unsure how to demonstrate delay entitlement — let’s talk.
Insightful article