The industry consultation undertaken by the Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT), asking for comments on the suggestion that building contracts should include stronger sustainability performance provisions, has came to an end.

The level of response was positive, with comments lodged by individuals, companies, trade associations, professional bodies and other organisations. There were also several 'collective' responses, representing a large number of views.

Peter Hibberd, JCT Secretary-General, said: "On simple analysis, it is clear that sustainability is a matter of importance, and a substantial majority of respondents thought that performance could be improved through industry specific documentation.

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"Many thought that contract conditions should be specific about sustainability performance, but not too detailed, relying upon other supporting documentation for implementation.

"The general view was that these contract clauses must be legally enforceable, and 80% thought that guidance was required for dealing with sustainability in contract documents."

To determine the next steps, JCT has established a working group. Various representatives from its council, which includes the British Property Federation, Construction Confederation, Local Government Association, National Specialist Contractors Council, Royal Institute of British Architects, The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and the Scottish Building Contract Committee, will decide how JCT is going to take this forward.

Mr Hibberd continued: "With over 70% of all building contracts being under a JCT form, what we decide will have a major impact upon the industry. The working group will decide whether we address sustainability in standard contracts, and if we do, what terms to include, and what guidance we provide."

(CD/JM)