FAQs

What is an Engineer to the Contract (EtCs)?

EtCs play a vital role in the delivery of building and civil engineering construction projects as set out in the New Zealand Standard 3910:2013 Conditions of contract for building and civil engineering construction. EtCs fulfil a dual role. They act as the principal’s agent and an independent certifier, moderating the interests of the contractor and the principal in building and construction contracts. They also adjudicate where necessary. An EtC doesn't need to be an engineer but must be a natural person (not a company).

What is 3910?

NZS 3910:2013 Conditions of contract for building and civil engineering construction is used as the foundation for the majority of New Zealand contracts in the building, engineering, construction and infrastructure industry sectors. It provides a standard form of general conditions of contract for incorporation into building and civil engineering construction contract documents, ensuring they're suited to New Zealand’s industry and legislative environment. It enables principals, EtCs, and contractors to quickly establish contractual arrangements that deliver a wide variety of building and civil engineering projects.

NZS 3910 is currently under review. Find out more about the review.

How do I find an EtC?

We've established a Panel of recognised EtCs who meet set criteria. Panel members have been recognised by the Steering Group as having the professional skills, experience and mana to be highly effective in the role. View list of Panel members.

Do I have to use your Panel to find an EtC?

No. Appointment as a Panel member is a mark of the industry’s trust and confidence that these people can practice to a high standard. It's expected that, in time, Panel members will become “go-to” EtCs when appointments are made. Use of the Panel is not compulsory nor is the Panel the only source of EtCs.

Can you help me choose an EtC from your Panel?

Although the decision on who to engage is yours, we can assist in finding people to choose from. Email the Panel Coordinator.

Can I trust the EtCs on your Panel have the right skills for the job?

The Panel provides an independent and public list of EtCs who've been appointed through a cross-stakeholder evaluation process. They've been assessed as having the professional skills, experience, and mana to be highly effective in the role. Appointment as a Panel member is a mark of the industry’s trust and confidence that these people can practice to a high standard. Panel members are role models and set a clear standard for the role that EtCs, principals and contractors can use to benchmark EtC services – including ideal skills, experience and behaviours needed to succeed in the role, good practice and accountability. All Panel members are expected to comply with a Code of Ethics.

What do I do if I'm not satisfied with the services of the EtC?

There should be mechanisms for dispute resolution in the your contract with your EtC. about dispute resolution. This is a private matter between the parties.

However, Panel members are expected to be role models. The Steering Group has developed a Code of Ethics applying to the professional attitude and behaviours of a person who has been appointed to the Panel. This set of expectations applies to the Panel member’s performance of the role of EtC. Each Panel member has acknowledged and committed to complying with this Code of Ethics.

If you have any issues or concerns about a Panel member and their continued eligibility to be a recognised Panel member, email the Panel Coordinator.

How do I become an EtC?

This is one of the objectives of the Panel. During the pilot phase, Panel members will contribute their knowledge and experience to develop resources and training that set a benchmark for EtC practice and consistency in services. Resources will be developed to support up-and-coming EtCs, ensuring a steady supply of future Panel members.

If you wish to be notified when these are available, please email the Panel Coordinator.

Professional development courses are already available from other providers, including:

• Engineering New Zealand
• Institute of Public Works Engineers Australasia – New Zealand (IPWEA NZ)
• NZIHT School of Engineering, Energy and Infrastructure
• Calderglen Associates
• Enmore Consultancy
• NZIQS
• Brightstar

Please note that this non-exhaustive list is for information purposes only. No providers are specifically endorsed by the Steering Group.

How do I apply to be part of your Panel of EtCs?

There'll be future opportunities to join the Panel after the pilot phase. We encourage you to apply again if you weren't successful in the initial round. We'll advertise on this website and through other industry channels when applications open for EtCs wishing to be part of the wider Panel, after the Pilot phase.