When a project bank account is needed

The head contractor is responsible for deciding whether a building and construction project requires a project bank account (PBA).

They need to consider several factors in making this decision, including whether:

• the project meets the threshold tests
• the work is classed as 'building work'
• they have suppliers or subcontractors
• their subcontractors are related entities
• their project is exempt from a PBA.

Sometimes, a contract variation or amendment may result in a project needing a project bank account, even if it didn't meet the criteria when the project began.

This guide explains all the factors that a head contractor must consider when deciding whether to set up a PBA for a project.