2025.03.20

Choose the right form of agreement

The Swedish Water Industry has compiled the table below to provide an overview of the different standard agreements that can be used for water and sanitation projects. The purpose of the table is to facilitate the procurement and implementation of water and sanitation projects.

Standardized terms and conditions aim to reduce the risk of misinterpretation and the workload for the parties and thus the costs. Keep in mind that deviating from a standard agreement can complicate the procurement unnecessarily. The same applies if you mix standard agreements.

The water industry recommends that when choosing an agreement, ask yourself the question ”What is the main purpose of the project?” The answer, together with the table below, can make the choice easier. The water industry also sees partnering as a possible form of collaboration.

The appropriate form of contract based on the project type and the client's willingness to take responsibility and risk is summarized in the table below. The table comes from SVU report 2019-23 where the Water Industry is a co-author.

The procurement authority is happy to answer general questions about procurement. Methods that Negotiated Procedure or Competitive Dialogue makes it easier for both the client and the supplier and the project. You can also read more about Negotiated procedure with prior advertising here and if Competitive dialogue here. The Competition Authority receives tip about general procurement problems as well as about unauthorized direct procurement or other serious violations of procurement legislation.

Last revised 2025.03.20.