FIS has unveiled a second Simplified Subcontract Template, designed in partnership with construction lawyer Sarah Fox. This contract is designed to support those engaging or working as labour only suppliers (both individuals and labour gangs).
Earlier this year, a dedicated task and finish group was established within FIS to look at whether we could develop a simplified contract that worked upstream and downstream to cover both construction or design and build projects. The resultant template was launched in summer 2025 and is now available on the FIS Legal and Contractual Toolkit.
This new template extends this, again leaning into Sarah Fox’s “500-word contract” principles, which advocate for concise, plain-English agreements that are easy to understand and implement in a labour only context.
Why this matters
Contracts in the construction sector have traditionally been lengthy, complex, and often inaccessible to those without legal expertise. This can lead to misunderstandings, delays, and costly disagreements. The FIS and Sarah Fox have worked together to create a document that is:
- Clear and Concise: Stripped back to essential terms, avoiding unnecessary jargon.
- Fair and Balanced: Designed to protect both parties and encourage collaboration.
- Practical and Accessible: Easy to adopt for businesses of all sizes within the finishes and interiors sector.
By reducing complexity and ambiguity, the template aims to support stronger relationships between contractors and their labour only sub contractors and labour suppliers, helping avoid confusion, minimise disputes and improve project delivery.
Commenting on the launch Iain Mcilwee, Chief Executive of FIS
“Our goal from the outset to create a set of contracts that are easy to understand, implement and that ultimately support better working relationships. Our industry thrives on trust and collaboration and contracts should be written to support this. This template is not just a legal document—it’s a statement of intent to work smarter and fairer.”
Sarah Fox, Construction Lawyer and Contract Specialist added:
“Contracts should be clear, concise, and understood by everyone who signs them. The 500-word approach ensures that the essential terms are front and centre, reducing risk and building confidence across the supply chain.”
The Simplified Labour Only Subcontract Template is now available to FIS members via the FIS Contractual & Legal Toolkit. Support and training is available to help businesses implement the template effectively through the toolkit and via the FIS Legal Helpline. Additional support to implement in your business is available from Sarah at a special rate negotiated for FIS Members.