Construction Law

Our philosophy is that the primary objective must always be to avoid a dispute. To this end we can provide advice at the inception of a project including the use of the most appropriate form of standard contract, drafting amendments to contracts, partnering arrangements and the setting up bespoke agreements.

Despite the best planning disputes can still occur and therefore a large element of our work involves assistance during and after the construction process - trouble shooting as well as advising on the dispute resolution process.

Where disputes cannot be settled by a process of negotiation, we can provide the necessary guidance to assist our clients in deciding the most appropriate legal forum for resolution. Thereafter we will deliver tailored commercial and tactical advice in order to achieve a successful conclusion.

We have considerable expertise in enforcing adjudication decisions:

• Interpretation of agreements including construction & commercial agreement
• Valuation of works including variations
• Analysis of extensions of time
• Assessment of loss and /or expense
• Professional negligence
• Defects

We advocate the solving of problems. With an awareness gained through our years of experience in the construction industry, we are able to guide our clients through the maze of standard forms enabling them to choose the one best suited to meet their objectives. Where bespoke agreements or amendments to standard forms are required we will seek to ensure that the allocation of risk is clearly expressed and reflects our client’s requirements.

We promote partnering and believe its implementation is to the benefit of all involved. We have the range of experience needed to be able to advise effectively on this area and to draft or revise agreements so that they properly reflect the required partnering ethos.

We can advise on all forms of construction documentation including:

• Standard forms and bespoke agreements
• Bonds, warranties and parent company guarantees
• Partnering agreements
• Procurement
• Design team appointments
• Collateral warranties
• Letters of intent
• Novation agreements
• Third party rights

Our partners have over its years asked for developers, contractors, sub contractors, local authorities, and construction professionals including architects, engineers, quantity surveyors and project managers. We are also able to advise clients on CDM issues and health & safety problems including HSE prosecutions.