Construction Management - When is a variation not a variation, October 2022

Paul Gibbons answers the following question: The architect on our project has issued an instruction to install specific hinges to doors on our project, but they claim this is not a variation. Is this correct and, if so, what can we do?

Beale & Co - Consultants - Is your duty of care under attack, 04072018

Historically the market approach within the construction industry has been to include in professional appointments a contractual obligation relating to a duty of care often equivalent to the common law duty to exercise reasonable skill & care In more recent times new suites of standard form agreements and certainly typical bespoke agreements, are moving away from this approach and adopting an elevated duty of care. Bespoke agreements are increasingly introducing fitness for purpose obligations

Building Magazine - What does ‘design life’ mean in construction contracts? 28072020

Examining the implications of contractual obligations on the ‘design life’ of buildings, and how far they extend Items to check include: - What are the "design life obligations"? Is it the design life of specific components, or the overall building or structure - To what extent does "reasonable care" apply (in the contract & specification) - Has the Contractor 'warranted' the works? - What does "design life" actually mean? Maintenance-free or "ought not to need major repairs over [the] period"?