Fit Out Q&A: What Is A Fit Out Framework Agreement?

What is a fit out framework?

Frameworks allow clients with multiple projects to set standards, prices, and the engagement process in advance. This reduces the need to initiate a fit out contractor from scratch each time a project is undertaken, often reducing overheads and time frames before starting a project.

What are the benefits of a framework?

The benefits of a framework agreement are vast; ranging from contractual simplification, to competitive pricing, allocating future resources and building long-term relationships that are built around quality.

Are frameworks just a cheaper route to market?

Frameworks allow a client to agree on pricing and standards for fit out projects. This removes the need to undertake repetitive, lengthy and costly procurement processes before commencing each project. Delivering multiple projects through a framework can result in significant time savings and an uplift in overall quality.

What would make a framework an ideal fit for a client?

Choosing a framework structure comes down to the client and their future work requirements. Frameworks can work well for larger organisations with multiple sites or consistent updates or changes to a property portfolio. Frameworks can work well for higher volume work that isn’t cost effective to put to tender. For higher value projects, frameworks can remove the need to go out to market, as clients may already have preferred contractors to tender directly with through their framework arrangements.

Does a framework mean that a client is then locked into using a single fit out provider?

Good frameworks are designed to give the client choice, and most will have multiple contractors working on a framework (can be as many as 10 or 20 on a national framework) and they are often selected based on their regional strength or a unique skill set.

Are frameworks faster than a traditional approach?

The idea of frameworks is to make launching a project easier, as framework contractors have pre-agreed rates, terms and standards. Contractors can be more flexible and available to take on framework projects, due to the repeat nature of the work. So, yes while time may be spent negotiating the initial framework agreement, time is saved down the line when undertaking subsequent projects.

Do frameworks result in increased quality on projects?

Since repeat business is a cornerstone of frameworks, it results in a higher quality finish with fewer snags and issues at handover. After all, the contractors on a framework are always looking to build a stronger relationship with their clients.