Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in Construction: What It Means and Why It Matters
Disputes in construction aren’t new. Before the 1990s, if two parties fell out over delays, payments, design changes or anything really that could be discussed and agreed, there were only two real options — go to court or head into arbitration. Both were expensive, time-consuming, and adversarial. Projects stalled. Cash flow dried up. Relationships broke […]
Contingencies in Construction Projects
Every construction project starts with optimism. The plans look solid, the numbers add up, and the programme feels achievable. But somewhere between breaking ground and completion, something always shifts. Ground conditions surprise you. Regulations change. Prices move. That’s why every well-run project needs one thing above all else — a contingency. What Is a Contingency […]
A Beginner’s Guide to Building Disputes
Unfortunately, one of the most common issues we see in the construction industry today is disputes over building work. Disagreements between the different parties involved in the project, from contractors and subcontractors, clients, architects and engineers. The disputes that come up during building work can be complex and can be about fairly important things. Delays, […]
How to Build a Construction Budget (UK)
Every successful project begins long before anyone steps on site. It starts with numbers — the budget that turns drawings into reality. A good budget isn’t just a spreadsheet of costs; it’s the foundation of control, clarity, and confidence for everyone involved. In the UK, construction budgets have to do more than cover materials and […]
Getting the Best Construction Costs Through Tendering
If you work in the construction industry, you must understand the tendering process. It’s a critical part of making sure you’re getting the best value for money and securing the best contracts. If you’re doing work on your own property then you need to understand it too, since it will give you the confidence that […]
What Are Modern Methods of Construction (MMC)?
There’s something that’s been on our mind a lot lately. Why is it that so many industries have been evolving at such a rapid pace, but construction is lagging behind? We’ve gone from landlines to smartphones, post to instant messaging, and taxis to ride sharing. But what about construction? In so many ways, it still […]
What Does an Employer’s Agent Do? JCT Design & Build Explained
Whether you’re a regular developer, investor or consultant stepping into the space, there are a lot of things to get your head around in the construction world. Including who does what. One of the most pivotal, but often overlooked roles is the Employer’s Agent under a JCT Design and Build Contract. But understanding the responsibilities […]
Technical Due Diligence for Site Acquisition
When a new site is being developed, there are a lot of plates to keep spinning. While all of them are important, there is a critical part of the process that often doesn’t get the spotlight it deserves. It happens right at the start, during the site acquisition process, and it’s called technical due diligence. […]
The Difference Between Planning Permission & Building Control
Properties are a significant investment – probably the biggest you’ll make. And unlike other investments, they also offer the opportunity to increase their value by improving or expanding them. You can make internal improvements and improve the space. You can transform unused spaces by adding extensions or adjusting the internal layout. But if you don’t […]
What to Do If You Find Asbestos During Renovation (UK Guide)
Let’s say you’re renovating a property. Maybe you own the home, manage the building, or you just bought it to fix it up. You, or a contractor, are ready to work. You pull back a ceiling tile or start stripping out some walls, and you hear a question that no one really wants to hear; […]