Construction Contract Solicitors - Expert Legal Help for Building Agreements

Construction contracts are the foundation of any successful building project. Whether you're a property owner commissioning work or a contractor taking on projects, having properly drafted and reviewed contracts protects your interests and prevents costly disputes.

What Our Construction Contract Solicitors Can Help With

• Contract Drafting: Creating bespoke construction contracts tailored to your project
• Contract Review: Analysing existing contracts for risks and unfair terms
• JCT Contracts: Standard form JCT contract negotiation and amendments
• Subcontractor Agreements: Protecting main contractors through proper subcontract terms
• Design & Build Contracts: Comprehensive agreements for design and build projects
• Professional Services Agreements: Contracts with architects, engineers and consultants
• Contract Variations: Managing changes to scope and additional work
• Payment Terms: Ensuring fair payment schedules and retention provisions

Types of Construction Contracts

Standard Form Contracts:

• JCT Contracts: Joint Contracts Tribunal standard forms
• NEC Contracts: New Engineering Contract suite
• FIDIC Contracts: International construction contracts
• ICE Contracts: Institution of Civil Engineers forms
• JCT Minor Works: For smaller building projects

Bespoke Contracts:

• Residential building contracts
• Commercial construction agreements
• Renovation and refurbishment contracts
• Infrastructure and civil engineering contracts
• Framework agreements for ongoing work

Key Contract Terms to Consider

Essential Provisions:

• Scope of Work: Detailed specifications and drawings
• Contract Price: Fixed price, cost plus, or measurement contracts
• Payment Terms: Interim payments, retention, and final account
• Time for Completion: Start date, completion date, and liquidated damages
• Variations: How changes to work are valued and approved
• Risk Allocation: Insurance, indemnities, and liability caps

Dispute Resolution:

• Construction adjudication clauses
• Mediation and arbitration provisions
• Governing law and jurisdiction
• Expert determination for technical disputes

Contract Risk Management

For Property Owners:

• Ensuring adequate performance bonds and warranties
• Protecting against delays through liquidated damages
• Securing proper insurance coverage
• Maintaining control over variations and costs
• Including defects liability periods

For Contractors:

• Securing fair payment terms and cash flow
• Limiting liability and excluding consequential losses
• Managing design responsibility and professional indemnity
• Protecting against unfair risk allocation
• Ensuring reasonable time for completion

Payment and Security Provisions

Payment Mechanisms:

• Interim payment applications and notices
• Pay when paid vs pay when certified clauses
• Retention money and release provisions
• Set-off rights and contra-charges
• Interest on late payments

Security Options:

• Performance bonds and guarantees
• Parent company guarantees
• Retention of title clauses
• Bank guarantees and letters of credit

Why Choose SolicitorConnect for Construction Contracts

• Contract Specialists: Solicitors with extensive construction contract experience
• Industry Knowledge: Understanding of construction processes and commercial realities
• Standard Form Expertise: Deep knowledge of JCT, NEC, and other standard contracts
• Risk Management: Identifying and mitigating contract risks before they become problems
• Commercial Focus: Balancing legal protection with project viability
• Plain English: Explaining complex contract terms in understandable language

Proper contract advice at the outset can prevent expensive disputes and ensure your construction project runs smoothly from start to finish.

This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal advice tailored to your situation, please consult with a qualified solicitor.