What does the term N.I.C. refer to in a contract?

The term N.I.C. stands for "Not in Contract." It is commonly used in construction documents and contracts to indicate items or elements that are not included as part of the contractual obligations. This designation helps clarify responsibilities and ensures that both parties are aware of what is explicitly excluded from the contract scope. Such clarity is essential to prevent disputes regarding the expectations and deliverables of the project. By clearly identifying that something is N.I.C., contract parties can manage their expectations and avoid assumptions about included items. This term is particularly useful during the bidding process and contract negotiations to delineate what is covered and what is not, thus avoiding potential confusion later in the project implementation.