Construction

Construction projects involve significant investment, complex contractual relationships and the coordination of numerous parties, often under demanding financial and operational conditions. From initial planning and procurement to completion and handover, clearly defined responsibilities, effective risk allocation and sound legal advice are essential to protecting the interests of those involved.

We advise developers, property owners, investors, contractors, subcontractors and other construction industry participants on residential, commercial, industrial and infrastructure projects. Our work covers the negotiation, drafting and interpretation of construction and engineering contracts, including bespoke agreements and internationally recognised standard forms such as FIDIC, as well as the legal issues arising throughout the execution of works.

Construction contracts must anticipate the challenges that can arise during a project. We assist clients in establishing clear contractual arrangements concerning scope, pricing, payment, variations, extensions of time, performance guarantees, defects, liability and termination. We also advise on the relationships between employers, contractors, consultants and other project participants, ensuring that responsibilities are appropriately allocated and contractual protections reflect the commercial and technical requirements of the project.

Our construction work includes:

• Construction, engineering and development contracts.

• Procurement, tendering, subcontracting and project financing arrangements.

• Contract administration, variations, extensions of time and claims management.

• Delays, disruption, defects, payment disputes and contractual termination.

• Construction litigation, arbitration and enforcement.

Construction projects rarely proceed entirely as anticipated. Changes in scope, unforeseen conditions, delays, cost overruns and disagreements concerning performance can significantly affect a project's viability. We advise clients as these issues emerge, assisting with contractual interpretation, notices, claims and the preservation of rights, often while works remain ongoing. Early intervention can be particularly important in preventing disagreements from escalating and disrupting the project.

Where disputes cannot be avoided, we represent clients in complex construction claims involving defective works, design responsibility, delays, additional costs, unpaid amounts and breaches of contractual obligations. These matters frequently require detailed consideration of technical evidence, project documentation and the interaction between multiple contractual arrangements. We work with engineers, architects, quantity surveyors and other specialists where necessary, representing clients in negotiations, litigation and arbitration.

Our construction work also intersects with real estate, finance and corporate transactions. We assist with the contractual and financial structures supporting development projects, including investment arrangements, security, insurance and relevant planning and permitting considerations, coordinating with specialist advisers where appropriate.

We recognise that construction disputes and contractual difficulties cannot always wait until a project is completed. Decisions often need to be taken quickly, while works continue and financial exposure increases. Our focus is on providing practical, timely advice that protects our clients' legal and commercial interests while supporting the successful delivery of their projects.