Acceleration (ARCHIVED)

This document has been archived and is available on isurv for information purposes only.

This guidance summarises what is meant by 'acceleration' in the construction industry, how, in practice, acceleration can be achieved and how it can be valued. 'Acceleration', when used in connection with construction contracts, generally refers to increasing the originally planned or current rate of progress of the works so as to complete the project earlier than would otherwise be the case.

Some of the points made in this guidance note apply equally, whether the acceleration is instigated by the contractor or the employer, but the focus is on acceleration requested by the employer.

Guidance is given under the headings of General Principles (Level 1: Knowing), Practical Application (Level 2: Doing) and Practical Considerations (Level 3: Doing/Advising). These headings map to the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC).

This is part of the RICS QS and construction standards (the 'Black Book').

Please be aware that this guidance note contains some material which is in the process of being updated for revisions to the CDM Regulations, RIBA Plan of Work, and updates to the JCT, NEC and FIDIC suites. Members are made aware of these impending revisions in order that they first check the most up to date position before electing to act in accordance with this guidance document.