At a glance
| Minor Works (MW / MWD) | Intermediate (IC / ICD) | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Simple, small works | Medium projects of moderate complexity |
| Design | Client’s design; MWD adds contractor design of specified parts | Client’s design; ICD adds a contractor-designed portion |
| Detail | Short, simple provisions | Fuller provisions, for example named specialists, sectional completion and more detailed insurance and termination clauses |
| Administration | Architect/contract administrator | Architect/contract administrator |
JCT’s own guidance describes each form’s intended use, and there’s no fixed financial limit for either. See the full JCT family.
When Minor Works is enough
- The work is simple and fully designed before tender.
- The period is short and there are no complex services installations.
- There’s no need for sections, named subcontractors or detailed control procedures.
When to choose Intermediate (or more)
- The project involves several trades and some complexity, but not enough for the Standard Building Contract or NEC.
- You want to name specialists, complete in sections or have more detailed provisions.
- Step up to the Standard Building Contract for larger or complex projects, or where bills of quantities are used.
For a homeowner, use JCT’s homeowner contracts instead: see homeowners and builders.
General information, not legal advice. What applies to you depends on your contract, the facts and where the work is, and the law changes. Check the sources below and take advice from a qualified professional before acting on anything that matters.
Last updated: 4 October 2026
