Clause 4.5 (Sub-consultants) is the most "hotly" edited clause. Megaprojects use niche experts (geotech, acoustic, heritage). The White Book 2017 states the Client can object to a sub-consultant with "reasonable cause." In practice, Clients try to change this to "sole discretion." If you see that redline, run or raise your fee by 30%.

For projects funded by the World Bank, EBRD, Asian Development Bank, or major commercial lenders, the use of FIDIC forms is often mandatory. If an owner presents a homemade PDF, the lender’s legal team will reject the financing conditions. Hence, the rush for the official 2017 version.

The legally binding document signed by both parties.