Pausing Construction Contracts
Many issues can arise that could cause significant delay to a project, be it disputed land or perhaps the collapse of funding for a development in the private sector. Both examples are solvable but could take time. Is it possible to suspend the works whilst working on...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Matthew Griffiths
The Art of Construction Project Management
The relationship between artist and canvas is a special and complicated one. To the untrained eye, there’s a blank piece of fabric, so pick up a brush, dip it in some paint and off you go.
If it were that simple, then names like Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt and Tiepolo’s would be mere footnot...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Dean Suttling
Mixed-Use Property Investment
Property development includes residential dwellings, i.e., flats, houses, and with this development, sizes are scalable from one at a time to mass developments with yield from this set against a constant backdrop of demand for housing. But what about investing in mixed-use property? What does this e...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Eve Lameks
Want Project Success? It All Starts at Tender Stage
Views of procurement success vary between Main Contractors. One perspective on success is a signed contract, within budget, with the Subcontractor meeting the main programme dates. Another is a subcontractor's engagement at a low price, carrying the majority of the risk, and signed to strict contrac...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Time Risk Allowance and Terminal Float
In-direct cost typically ranges between 25% to 60% as a percentage of the direct costs, averaged as a weekly run rate and then multiplied by the length of the programme, so assessing the programme in terms of durations becomes essential to calculate an accurate estimate or price.
However, if you ...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Dean Suttling
OJEU and the Brexit Impact
OJEU is an abbreviation for the Official Journal of the European Union and is used to publish tender opportunities across every EU member country. It has been in place since 2003, and the intent is for public sector contracts to be made available for bidders, not just in the resident country but acr...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Dean Suttling
Construction Industry Sustainability and BREEAM
Too much carbon in the atmosphere contributes to global warming. Currently, the operation of buildings in the UK is estimated to contribute around 40% of the country's greenhouse gas emissions. Performance improvements are required both for new build and for refurbishment works.
Notwithstanding a...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Defects and Abortive Work
The identification of defects in construction work often needs to be a considered view. Pointing out non-compliance of construction activities versus the design requirements is easy when identifying defects, but what has caused the issue in the first place and what is the root cause requiring remedi...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Conflicts of Interest
The term "conflict of interest" is widely used to describe situations where a person or organisation is involved in multiple interests, financial or otherwise, which could corrupt the motivation or decision making of that individual or organisation.
A conflict of interest exists if the circumstan...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Acceleration Claims
Acceleration Quotations
In most construction contracts, pressure on achieving a completion date is difficult. It's harder still when impacted by project delays, which can be of either party’s making. The options available to the contractor are:
Overrun past completion, which would cause repu...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Dean Suttling
Construction Progress Reporting
Construction projects contain many variables in terms of the different packages and components coming together. The requirement to manage all of these in challenging conditions can be a real test logistically. If you're working on one project with a single site and precise programming sequence, this...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Non-Completion Notices and Extensions of Time
Construction contracts contain start dates and end dates. With many projects, the end date is critical to meet follow-on works, trigger a funding release, or avoid penalties for overrunning and not operating on time in the case of infrastructure projects. For this reason, many clients seek to invoke...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Set-Off Rights
It is not uncommon for developers or clients to generally work with the same supply chain project to project or even, in certain circumstances, have more than one contract with a supplier but on the same project. As a client, you would need to recover sums due from the contractor or subcontractor, a...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Dean Suttling
Pre-Construction Planning
The journey through to the end of detailed design and before physical works starting is known as the pre-construction phase. Whether, as a client or developer, you contract at the earliest stage or proceed through a more traditional route, you should follow the same steps, regardless of whether you ...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
COVID-19 Construction Claims
While the UK Government has published guidance on how the construction industry should continue during the pandemic, there was a period between the country going into lockdown, the confusion about how to implement social distancing guidelines, and other new working methods before the guidance was pu...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Programme Negotiations – The Developer’s Perspective
Before entering the next contract with a main contractor or subcontractor, ask yourself if you know the programme in detail? I mean, beyond "yes, they need to finish in 20 weeks".
I didn't ask myself this question often enough and probably made a mistake to that end. To my liking, the programme a...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
I still need a QS though, right?
"For construction management, I still need a QS, don't I? Are there any scenarios where I don't need one? How would I get one? Do I have to employ them?"
There are different ideas around how you should set up a project management team on a construction site. O'Reilly, an online learning platform fo...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Risks and Opportunities for Developers
In any industry, for a project to be a success, a defined strategy is critical. Construction and development are no different. Building a plan gives the team a focus, an understanding of the end-goal: why are we building what we are building and what are our metrics for success?
Having these metr...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Dean Suttling
The Construction Playbook
The construction industry contributes between £90-£110b to the UK economy each year, approximately 7% of the countries GDP. Harnessing this level of spend, controlling it and turning its focus towards being more efficient, greener, sustainable, and more productive is nothing new as this aspiration...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Where do I find a good project manager?
Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, once said that:
"The secret of my success is that we have gone to exceptional lengths to hire the best people in the world."
I'm sure this resonates with us all. No matter which business we are in, recruitment plays a fundamental role in our business's success,...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Dean Suttling
Early Contractor Involvement
UK construction has been the subject of many independent reviews, with a general theme being that it needs to become less adversarial to become more effective and efficient in the delivery of projects. The key example being the Latham report in 1994, which was a big advocate for more partnering to c...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Dean Suttling
Insurance Profiles
Recently, the Supreme Court has found in favour of small firms to receive payments from their insurers regarding claims for the effect of COVID-19, specifically business interruption insurance after contesting entitlement for some time. Notwithstanding this, Lloyds of London estimated that as a glob...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Dean Suttling
Whole Life Costs vs Value Engineering
As a developer, you may be concerned about the whole life costs of your project, but equally if you intend to only fund the initial capital costs, why would you need to consider the life cycle costs of a building? You only want to build it, realise a return on your investment, and then move onto the...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
In what circumstance is Construction Management not suitable for a developer?
Construction Management is a distinctive procurement route in that the developer (also known as the client) places, and then manages, individual subcontracts with separate specialist subcontractors as opposed to employing a principal contractor to undertake this work on their behalf.
Although I...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Step in Rights
A funder of a development will usually have a right to achieve a benefit in return. This could be that a particular type of product, material or layout is installed, therefore in typical circumstances collateral warranties would be requested by the funder which effectively act as a duty of care to t...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Give me the numbers!
Can developers make big savings on construction management?
In previous articles, we talked at length about what Construction Management is, how it differs from the traditional ‘main contractor’ procurement route, and what the benefits are of this fresh approach.
In this article, let’s del...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Contract Settlements
If you have completed a project or you’re seeking to reach an interim agreement, then you’ll be looking to agree a final account. However, there may be some contentious claims that you’re working through, add to that you have an eye on the next development and you don’t want to fall out with...Read More
Blog
Posted by Liam Curley
Property e-procurement start-up raises investment from Northern angel investors
C-Link, a property procurement start-up founded in 2015 by Paul Heming and Chris Barber, has successfully raised a six figure investment from private investors through investment non-profit, NorthInvest.
The C-Link platform simplifies the initial procurement process for SME construction companies...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
How do I Structure Construction Management?
Construction Management is a unique procurement route.
Using this method, a property developer directly employs multiple subcontractors instead of a single main contractor. The single feature that makes Construction Management distinctive is that it’s the developer who places individual subcont...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Disputed Contract Terms
Time and cost are significant driving forces in construction. Situations often arise whereby these pressures dictate that clients or contractors issue contracts and start works before they are formally executed. Alternatively, they issue letters of intent, but due to ongoing issues or changing timel...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Dean Suttling
Advanced Payments
When working with long term and repeat suppliers, it’s not uncommon for them to approach you when their cash flow is under pressure and request advance payment. Similarly, you may be leaning on them to deliver a project that is typically beyond their financial limit and this has placed their banki...Read More
Blog
Posted by Kristina Smith
Net zero: should you care?
The Government’s commitments to cutting carbon emissions will start to impact on new housing soon
Back in October 2019, the Government launched a consultation into its Future Homes Standard, aimed to make new-build homes highly energy efficient, with low carbon heating from 2025. The standard is ...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Novation Agreements
In terms of when is novation applicable, there are various scenarios where it could be an option, such as a change in the developer who is keen to progress the works at pace and keep the project on programme and budget. Therefore, the new developer could novate the existing designer and carry on und...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Mollie Kate Cohen
What should a Developer be doing when acting as Main Contractor?
It is becoming more and more common for Developers to take the reins on (almost) all aspects of a project and assume the role of Main Contractor. However, as Developers aren’t by name nor nature actually Main Contractors, they sometimes lack the experience and resources required to be consistently...Read More
Blog
Posted by James Finnie
Offsite Structural Options: The Case for Timber
This is the last in a trilogy of articles focusing on the three main offsite structural options, concluding with timber.
I feel like this introduction needs to start with a conclusion to my findings. The essence of all three articles has shown me three things:
Design no longer needs to be st...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Dean Suttling
Securities for Developers
Before engaging a contractor to undertake your development, apart from relying on the standard obligations placed down in your chosen form of contract, you might be seeking additional surety in the form of a bond or parent company guarantee. Understanding the difference between each is key to ensuri...Read More
Blog
Posted by Kristina Smith
Green for go
Planners all over the country are keen to see greenery in new applications. The current pandemic will only accelerate that trend.
The Covid-19 pandemic has really underlined the value of green space; we understand that access to parks, back gardens, balconies or even window boxes is a privilege. Su...Read More
Blog
Posted by James Finnie
Offsite Structural Options: The Case for Steel
This is my second article focusing on the three main off site structural options – steel.
(Funnily enough) The first point is that steel has tremendous versatility. While I was working at SOM, one of their US engineers gave an engrossing talk to the London office on the structural frame design ...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Chris Williams
What happens when your contractor becomes insolvent mid-project?
Have you ever wondered what the demise of Carillion meant for the numerous government projects they were involved in? Or how a Client deals with the fallout of such an event occurring on a project? What does a major development like this mean for the Client and how does the project move forward when...Read More
Blog
Posted by Mollie Kate Cohen
The Six Capitals: Incorporating Integrated Reporting into your Construction Business
Capital is defined as ‘wealth in the form of money or other assets’, so why is it that so often when we report within our business that it is purely from a financial perspective? When valuing a business, so many different factors are taken into consideration, such as the reputation of the busine...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Kristina Smith
Protect your supply chain – and your project
We asked C-Link director Chris Barber for tips on how developers and main contractors can support their subcontractors, as construction projects fight to get back on track.
Although most construction sites are back in operation now, post-Covid, industry pundits are warning of tough times ahead.
...Read More
Blog
Posted by Christopher Dawson
Connectivity in a World of Big Data: The elements of design that affect WIFI coverage
The world has changed quicker than any of us imagined. Anyone who has worked from home will understand the reliance on the Internet and more importantly data connectivity. Parents presenting to the board or taking part in one of the numerous Zoom, Teams or Skype calls crackling through the atmospher...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Mollie Kate Cohen
What does bidding look like at a professional level?
If you work in the construction industry, then you’re probably familiar with the term bidding (or tendering). Yet, bidding is generally not very well understood, even though at some point, no matter which department you work in you will probably be involved in one.
What is bidding?
There are man...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Piragash Sivanesan
What can a developer do when the lender is pulling funding?
Putting a project together that stacks financially, that you feel can be executed, with the right delivery partners and right market conditions, can feel like hitting the development lottery. Many developers were caught in a position in 2008, and latterly through out a period of change from 2019-20,...Read More
Blog
Posted by Natalie Sparkes
Design solutions for small interiors
As urban areas look to increase housing numbers throughout their districts, individual living space is decreasing. Designing for small spaces may seem daunting to many, but they can allow the designer to think more creatively to get the most use out of the space. Schemes for small areas need to cons...Read More
Blog
Posted by James Finnie
Offsite Structural Options: The Case for Precast Concrete
This is the first of three articles focusing in detail on the three main offsite structural options: Precast, Steel and Timber.
I must start this article with an apology to concrete, being a biased member of the timber camp, and profess I don’t know everything about it. So, I was pleasantly sur...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Chris Williams
The role of a Contracts Administrator
Have you ever come across the term ‘Contracts Administrator’ whilst browsing through some project material and wondered what it means? Or have you ever considered the purpose of such a role and what skills are required to be successful at it?
The implementation phase of a construction contrac...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Dean Suttling
A guide to valuing variations
Disputes in construction are typically centred on payment with differing views as to the value of work completed. Variations play a key role in this as the contract price is agreed before the contract is executed. However, with contracts laying down the process for acknowledging a variation and the ...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Karen Francis
Different types of tenders and how to approach them
If you’re a contractor that’s new to bidding or you simply need a handy reference guide, read on for more about the different types of tenders you could face, and how best to tackle them to secure a pipeline of work for your business. Equally, if you’re a developer wondering how best to procur...Read More
Blog
Posted by Natalie Sparkes
New materials in the world of interior design
The world of design is looking to constantly evolve, creating new trends to wow clients. Interiors are now looking to integrate seamlessly with the users, regardless of their style tastes. Combined with the need for durability and sustainability, interior designers and their clients are willing to p...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Nikhil Patel
What do lenders look for from a developer?
In this Q&A our writer, Nikhil Patel, interviewed Piragash Sivanesan from Totum Finance to discuss the topic of what lenders are looking for from a developer when considering whether to finance their next project. Totum Finance is a regulated brokerage that helps developers get funding for their...Read More
Blog
Posted by Kristina Smith
An inspector calls: The five things you should do to pass muster if the HSE visited your site for an inspection, post-Covid
With the threat of Coronavirus receding in most parts of the UK, Boris Johnson has urged the nation to “Build, build, build!” But anyone running a construction site post-Covid 19 faces a whole host of new challenges, the most important of which is how to protect employees, workers and visitors f...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Chris Williams
Lump sum contracts
Have you ever wondered how a cost is agreed between a client and contractor before a construction project begins? Or how the basis of this cost is put together and what any changes to the scope would mean to this agreed cost? Despite being a relatively straightforward concept to understand, parties ...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Signing under hand or under deed (seal)
When drawing up contract conditions, you should consider if the contract needs to be executed as a deed or if a simple underhand contract will suffice, but what is the difference? Why does it matter which route you go down.
Essentially they differ, as the limitation period for bringing a claim, o...Read More
Procurement
Posted by James Finnie
Modular trends
What is modular construction?
Modular building types in the UK were conceived a hundred years ago at the end of World War I when steel and aluminium factories needed new sources of work, and there was also a housing shortage. Many housing prototypes were designed, though hardly any used. Another su...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Dean Suttling
Building a pricing document
If you are looking to value variations, put your own cost plan together or compare prices back from the market, then you can utilise construction price books for rates and prices in order to establish current market rate. The benefits of price books are that they are compiled from industry feedback ...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Chris Williams
Disruption claims in the construction industry
Disruption can mean various things to different people, so defining it is quite tricky. However, it’s important in a construction industry context, particularly from a Contractor’s perspective, and can have substantial implications to all stakeholders party to a construction contract.
What is d...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Sophie Parry
A lighting specification: The commercial office environment
Part 1 of this series of articles focused on the basic principles of good lighting when developing a specification or having to make informed purchasing decisions. The first article commenced with the residential environment on the basis that most people live in their own or rented homes and so can ...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Callum Brown
Installation and maintenance of fire doors: 3rd party accreditation is critical
3rd Party Accreditations and Certifications are instrumental in the control of quality on construction projects and form an important part of the quality control process in maintaining the standards of installation expected by manufacturers, suppliers, clients, and their insurers.
In Passive Fire...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Dean Suttling
Retention: How and what to put in place
Retention in the UK dates back to the 1840s where it was used as security against contractor insolvency through the boom of railway expansion in the Victorian era. The rising demand for contractors was met with a growth in new business formation, which often meant that quality standards were not met...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Karen Toms
When is the best time to sell a development?
The whole reason for a property developer to build a housing development is to sell it. In order to maximise return on investment, it’s critical that they plan their project comprehensively, both in terms of completing the project within the optimum timeframe and by considering in advance the best...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Chris Williams
Best Endeavours vs Reasonable Endeavours
Why do so many construction disputes occur? This is a curious question and one that has been subject to scrutiny and debate over the years. There are several factors that contribute to the issue, however gaining a complete understanding of this matter is often challenging. The factors can be wide-ra...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Nikhil Patel
The High Street is emptying, what can we do with it?
A Note:
This article was written just before the Coronavirus outbreak in the UK, and given the government’s imposed lockdown, it’s clear that this has created further distress to the High Street. Whilst the underlying tone of this article remains the same on the back of the outbreak, the demise...Read More
Blog
Posted by James Finnie
Construction technology and what the changes look like between 2000 and 2020
It’s good to remind yourself where technology was in 2000. Google was only 2 years old, Mission Impossible 2 was the big movie, memory sticks were brand new and the iPod hadn’t yet been released. If you were on the go, a Sony CD Walkman was probably how you listened to music.
It’s understan...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Valuing variations with a Schedule of Rates
Consider that a bill of quantities reflects the project requirements through identification of the works, as described in the specification or illustrated on the contract drawings, and complies them into a list of measurable items. By contrast, a schedule of rates is used to value the scope of works...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Nikhil Patel
The planning system and the impact of potential delays on a project
The planning system is the framework that allows landowners and developers to legally get permission to enhance the use of their land and add value to it. Whilst a piece of land may, in principle, be appropriate to build a block of apartments upon, or several houses, without the correct planning per...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Chris Williams
Practical Completion vs Partial Possession
Have you ever come across a situation in which the penthouse balcony of a new residential block seems to be occupied with a family going about their daily lives even though the lower floors of the development are still swarmed with site operatives completing the final fit out? Or why the ground floo...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Callum Brown
How to improve the performance of an underperforming subcontractor
Subcontractor underperformance happens within the construction industry, as I am sure it does across all industries. However, in our industry, managers and surveyors are often relying on the expertise of the subcontractors they employ to carry out trades and works they themselves cannot undertake. T...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Nominated vs Named Subcontractors
If you are a developer operating as a management contractor whereby you procure packages with works contractors (i.e. groundworks, civils, roofing, cladding, M&E), you will likely be using the skills of an architect and structural engineer to develop your design brief and provide detailed design...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Karen Toms
How you build marketing personas for property buyers
Marketing is most effective when it sits right at the heart of a property company, playing a key role in informing business decisions, pricing, and communication with customers. Marketing is also crucial in ensuring that a company fully understands its target audience so it knows how to meet their n...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Karen Toms
The importance of the Information Release Schedule (IRS)
What is an IRS?
An IRS is, quite simply, a schedule that outlines what design information is going to be released during a construction project and when.
As we all know, it’s common for not all of the necessary design information to be available at tender stage or when contracts are being exch...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Dean Suttling
Structuring project cash flow
In construction, we often hear that ‘Cash is king.’ If you think of the demise of large main contractors over recent years, it was not the lack of a full order book that lead to their collapse, it was insolvency due to a lack of cash at hand to fund operations and their funder’s confidence in ...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Nikhil Patel
Where should I be looking for the best land opportunities?
Land is at the centre of any deal that property traders and developers are looking at. The deal is the land, and all the potential profit and success of any deal stems from what can be achieved from a particular parcel of land. When considering a purchase they intend to construct upon, whether the s...Read More
Procurement
Posted by James Finnie
Early contractor engagement in two stage tendering
A brief introduction on two stage tendering
Where time is at a premium, typically on larger more complex projects, two stage tendering has become a unique building procurement process. It allows the design to be developed and the tender process to run in parallel, early in the life of the project.
...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Callum Brown
Handing over finished works
Handing over finished works is part and parcel of any project. Whether it is a sectional handover; per area, per floor, per block, per development or a handover for the entirety of a contract – it happens all over the world every day throughout the construction industry. Regardless of the size or ...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Building Information Modelling (BIM) and JCT
BIM can trace its roots back to the 60’s in terms of a concept, the idea then developed in the 70s. However, this was in an era whereby drafting of construction drawings was almost entirely done by hand. It wasn’t until the computer boom of the 1980’s that allowed the development of BIM to tak...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Chris Williams
Low cost add-ons for developers
Residential Property Market in the UK
The residential property market, like many other sectors in the UK, goes through cycles. Following completion of a development project (depending on how the asset is disposed of), there are typically two key stakeholders that form the basis of the residential b...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Callum Brown
Acceleration in Construction
Go! Go! Go!
Acceleration in construction is the process of moving a project towards completion at a faster pace than originally anticipated. The idea is to finish works before the contracted date and end the programme before completion is due. In most circumstances, this will be a client driven c...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Final Accounts
Final accounts are an important commercial milestone in any construction project. They signify the agreement of the final amount to be paid between the client and the contractor or contractor and subcontractor and so on.
In construction contracts there are clauses and processes on how to vary the...Read More
Procurement
Posted by James Finnie
Performance Specification vs Full Design
You’re a developer building 10-20 residential units per year and are always looking for ways to streamline the building process. For starters, you realise that you need to pay more attention to the specification mix you use on your projects.
Hopefully by considering the following aspects, your ...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Chris Williams
SPVs – What are they and why do developers use them?
For some time, Real Estate development in the UK has been perceived as risky business for individuals or companies looking to cash in on lucrative opportunities within the built asset sector. This assertion is somewhat validated given that two-thirds of construction and infrastructure projects do no...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Karen Toms
Critical Path Analysis
Critical Path Analysis (CPA), also known as the Critical Path Method (CPM), is a powerful project management tool which has been used extensively for decades in the construction industry.
CPA assists you in defining and planning all of the tasks which are required in your project and how dependen...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
What is Culpable Delay?
If a project falls behind programme, proving or disproving liability for delay can be a complex and contentious subject for the contracting parties to resolve. Most construction contracts contain provisions for how completion dates can be extended if entitlement can be proven by the contractor. Subs...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Kate Kilborn
Building Regulations: a changing landscape
“Building standards are not sufficiently ambitious; they are overly complex and compliance is poor.” The 2018 Hackitt Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety identified worrying deficiencies in the current system of building regulation. While clearly well-intentioned, the regulations can ...Read More
Procurement
Posted by James Finnie
How do I employ an architect?
As a developer running an SME property development business, where to start with employing an architect?
The guidelines set out in this article should help you choose the right architect.
How and where to start
The most obvious place would be to seek advice from others in your company, like par...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Callum Brown
Mock-ups and samples: How to assess construction details and finishes on your next project
“Failing to prepare, is preparing to fail” – it’s something we’ve all heard many times before, especially working in the construction industry. It comes across as a throw away phrase used as a rebuttal when people have left things until the last minute and invariably come asking you for he...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Sophie Parry
What should a lighting specification look like?
Lighting is becoming an increasingly complex part of building services and project delivery. The reason for this increase is due to several factors:
The development of LED lighting technology
Methods of controlling the lighting
Energy efficiency
Circular economy considerations
Emerg...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Nikhil Patel
The Five-Year Problem for Developers
In the world of construction and property development, we cannot escape the realities that have come about from the Brexit crisis. The sphere of build costs and development appraisals have been hit by the uncertainty that has materialised from the way in which the situation has been handled. Despite...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Dean Suttling
Packaging of Works – What is the Best Way to Split out a Project?
The packaging of works by contractors to subcontractors and subcontractors to SMEs is widespread in construction dependent on the scope and nature of projects undertaken. How to package up works and what influences the decision as to how small to break the packages down is generally driven by the ri...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Dean Suttling
Special Purpose Vehicles and Construction Management
If you were to contact Companies House and ask them how many Special Purpose Vehicles or ‘SPVs’ are currently operating, they wouldn’t be able to tell you as they are not legal entities. SPV’s, or as they are also known ‘Special Purpose Entities’, are usually a limited company but could ...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
NEC3 vs NEC4
Whilst NEC has been in operation since 1993, it was in 1995 after the publication of Sir Michael Latham’s report, which describes the use of NEC as “extremely attractive”, that it became what is now the go to contract for major infrastructure contracts in the UK.
NEC 3 was published in 2005...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Adjudication vs Arbitration
The resolution of disputes in the construction industry is usually achieved through a tiered system of escalation, starting with mediation followed by adjudication, arbitration, and litigation. However, this is mostly driven by behaviours and established working relationships as, according to the Co...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
The Housing, Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act (HGCRA) and the Scheme for Construction Contracts
In the 1980s, construction was considered to offer low value for money due to the adversarial nature of contract terms leading to high volume of disputes, coupled with a drive to award contracts on the lowest possible tender price. This created a race to the bottom whereby unsustainable contract pri...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Latent vs Patent Defects and How to Manage them
The occurrence of defects is an unfortunate part of construction activities, but with nearly all standard forms of contract containing clauses to deal with them, managing one should it arise can not be too difficult, can it?
Administering contractual provisions works best when all parties accept ...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Dean Suttling
Principle of Entitlement
Unless amended, all construction contracts contain the provision for changes to be made. This could be from the developer instructing them or by the contractor claiming that a relevant event, compensation event, variation etc has occurred. If it is the latter, and as a developer you’re receiving n...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Dean Suttling
Groundworks, Archaeology and Minimising Risk in Procurement
If you’re a Developer and you intend to proceed on a construction management basis then you’ll be procuring individual packages of works including groundworks and archaeology. Understanding the risk of excavating in the ground, what you can do to mitigate it, your own risk profile, and how to pa...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Dean Suttling
Minimising Variations
If you’re a developer with a finite amount of funding then one main priority will be to minimise variations, or at the very least ensure you’re aware of the potential for variations before they occur and that you have made adequate allowance for them through contingency.
The Oxford dictionary...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Payment Mechanisms – What are your legal requirements as a client or developer?
Payment in the construction industry is always a hot topic. The government’s recent drive to restrict bidders for government contracts based on their payment practices is very telling. This, coupled with the fact that some major contractors been recently been placed into administration by their fi...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Dean Suttling
Development Briefs
The development management process for pre-construction can be broken down into five different phases, from an initial concept all the way through to full planning permission. A development brief is required for the early pre-construction phases as the development evolves through these stages.
If...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Dean Suttling
Cost Planning in Construction
Cost Plans – why are they needed?
As a developer, you have criteria that inform what you want your project to deliver. These are called Employer’s requirements and outline the performance specification, which is used to inform the supply chain that any design or product must deliver on the stat...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Dean Suttling
Contractor Insolvency – What do you do when it affects your project?
What is the difference between liquidation, administration and insolvency?
Issues regarding liquidity are sadly commonplace in the construction industry for companies of all sizes. Small margins and drawn out payment processes can put a real strain on a company’s cashflow. If projects do not proc...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Dean Suttling
Risk Management in Construction
Why is risk management important?
If a project is at the very earliest stage of inception, there will likely be a high amount of uncertainty compared to when the project is close to completion. It’s good project management to acknowledge these risks and proactively manage them. This starts by ide...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Delay Analysis
We put forward the following scenario to Jason Farnell, Adjudicator and CEDR Accredited Mediator:
"We’re a Property Developer who typically acts as a Main Contractor on projects. During a recent project we experienced programme issues relating to the design team and suffered delays that extended...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
RFIs and Design Management
We put forward the following scenario to Jason Farnell, Adjudicator and CEDR Accredited Mediator:
"I'm a Property Developer who typically acts as a Main Contractor on projects. I’m interested in understanding more about how the Design Management process is best managed – with a particular emph...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Dean Suttling
Joint Venture Property Development
What is joint venture property development?
According to the Oxford dictionary, a joint venture is “a commercial enterprise undertaken jointly by two or more parties which otherwise retain their distinct identities.” In property development this extends to an arrangement between two or more par...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Prime Cost Sums
During preparation of the design, the developer, usually via a directly commissioned Architect, will seek specialist advice about certain types of finish to a building, for example a certain type of cladding. The design and specification for the project may then be predicated on the use of this type...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Manny Singh
Letter of Intent – What’s it for and should I start works upon receipt?
As a Quantity Surveyor working for a small main contractor, you’ve been issued a Letter of Intent (LOI) by your client whilst the contract is finalised. Although having not commercially managed a project pre-contract before, you have some queries as to what a Letter of Intent is and its parameters...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Dean Suttling
Preliminaries in Construction
If the direct or permanent construction works’ bill of quantities or work schedule is prepared using the design and specification, then general project ‘overheads’ such as time related elements (e.g. project management and general supervision), plus individual items such as approvals and testi...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
LADs in Construction
Construction contracts place emphasis on the insertion of clear dates for starting works, when the works must be completed by, and the provision for inserting dates that sections of the works must be completed by. Commercial factors drive this necessity for clarity on the timing of the works. The Co...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Dean Suttling
Schedule of Works
What is a Schedule of Works?
A Schedule of Works is a contract document that lists the works required on a project. The Schedule references the requirements included in the specifications and contract drawings plus any additional ‘builders work’ or ‘fixing schedule’ type items, this is comm...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Jon Williams
Construction Partnering
What is Construction Partnering?
Construction partnering originated in the United States during the early 1980s. It was developed in connection with procurement as a technique for reducing the cost of contract disputes through improved communications, processes and relationships across the project ...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Dean Suttling
Construction Phase Plan
What is a Construction Phase Plan (CPP)?
If you have worked in the construction industry then you are likely to have heard reference made to the Construction Design Management Regulations or CDM.
The CDM Regulations were first introduced in 1994 following a European Directive (92/57/EEC) concern...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Jon Williams
Practical Completion – When is it achieved and how is it managed?
Practical Completion, often referred to as “PC”, is considered to mean the building is finished to a state where it can be put to its intended use, but small or minor defects may still be present.
Practical Completion is not expressly defined within the JCT suite of Contracts, but it may be d...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Dispute Resolution in Construction – An Overview
Disputes are unfortunately common in the construction industry due to several factors, most of which can be traced back to issues concerning payment or workmanship.
One example area would be a difference in assessment of a change in scope or, before even getting to the assessment, disputes can ar...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Jon Williams
Contract Sum Analysis
What exactly is a Contract Sum Analysis?
A Contract Sum Analysis (CSA) is an alternative pricing document to a Schedule of Works (SoW) / Bill of Quantities (BoQ). It’s often prepared in a standard format by the Employers Agent to support the tender returns review. The Employers Agent requests tha...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Performance Bonds in Construction
You’re about to enter into a contract as a developer placing a contract. You have concerns about the credit of the organisation you are about to enter into contract with or simply want surety concerning the contractor’s performance to protect your investment. Rather than seek alternative supplie...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Dean Suttling
Provisional Sum
Provisional Sum - When and how should you use it?
Provisional sums are perceived as difficult to manage, to understand and to execute. Should you only include them in the overall price as a last resort?
Whilst they are appealing as lump sum items, Provisional Sums are in effect risk items where ...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Jon Williams
Bill of Quantities
Your essential guide to producing a Bill of Quantities
A Bill of Quantities (BoQ / BQ) is a document prepared to allow the quantification and costing of construction works and may be prepared during several stages on a project for all of the works or a sample of the works.
Typically, BoQs are pr...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Defects Liability Period
What is the Defects Liability Period and how is it relevant to Subcontracts I place?
We put forward the following scenario to Jason Farnell, Adjudicator and CEDR Accredited Mediator:
I'm a Property Developer who typically acts as a Main Contractor on projects and I’m interested in understanding...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Jon Williams
JCT Insurance: A Breakdown
Construction can be a highly complex and dangerous activity. Each construction project will have its own complex risks inherited from its design and surroundings. These risks may be to persons, being site operatives, visitors to site or members of the public, or risks to the actual construction work...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Jon Williams
JCT Payment Terms
In the latest iteration of the JCT suite of contracts (JCT16), there were three key changes from (JCT11). These changes were:
The introduction of a Common Valuation Date or “IVD” Interim Valuation Date, which intends to align the cashflow throughout a project.
The frequency of applicatio...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Collateral Warranties in Construction
What are collateral warranties and do I need them on my project?
We put forward the following scenario to Jason Farnell, Adjudicator and CEDR Accredited Mediator:
I'm a Property Developer working on projects across London and the South East and I’m interested in understanding more about Collate...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Yashwant Tohooloo
JCT vs NEC: Which is best for your project?
JCT and NEC contracts are standard form of contracts. Both contracts provide a variety of options that suit the needs and requirements of clients (employers). However, you do need to understand project requirements and the level of control required by the client when selecting a contract form and a ...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Construction Management Procurement
An Introduction to Construction Management
Construction Management is a totally unique procurement route. Using this method, the developer directly employs multiple subcontractors (referred to as Trade Contractors) instead of employing a single Main Contractor. The single feature that makes Constru...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Design and Build Contracting for Developers
The Scenario
We put forward the following scenario to Jason Farnell, Adjudicator and CEDR Accredited Mediator.
I'm a Developer with a number of secured sites across the UK. Our business has historically taken the Traditional, Architect-led approach to procurement but as we look to expand and grow...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Contract Acceptance by Commencement
The Scenario
We put forward the following scenario to Jason Farnell, Adjudicator and CEDR Accredited Mediator.
I'm a Main Contractor working on a JCT Standard Building Contract (2016).
I've agreed a price and programme with a Subcontractor following receipt of their quotation and having held a...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Management Contracting Procurement
Management Contracting is a form of construction procurement where the Client for a project employs different Subcontractors directly. The Client has a Main Contractor in place that is responsible for managing the Subcontractors, but is not in contract with them in the same way as with traditional p...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
The JCT and Pay Less Notice
Payment in the construction industry has been a hot-topic for many years. Whether it’s payment between Employer and Main Contractor, or among Main Contractors and Subcontractors, the chance of a dispute remains higher in construction than it does in most industries.
In response to this, the UK ...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Two Stage Tendering
Two stage tendering, sometimes referred to as “negotiated tendering” or “two stage selective tendering”, is a unique construction procurement method because it takes place in two separate and clearly defined stages.
In two stage tendering, the Contractor is involved to enhance buildabilit...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Loss and Expense and LADs in JCT Contracts
The Scenario
We put forward the following scenario to Jason Farnell, Adjudicator and CEDR Accredited Mediator.
"I'm a Main Contractor working on an unamended JCT Design and Build Contract (2016). The project has achieved Practical Completion 8-weeks late owing to a variety of delays by various Su...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Construction Procurement
Procurement methods in the UK construction market work with an Employer issuing a Main Contract to one Main Contractor and thereafter, the Main Contractor issues multiple Subcontracts to various Subcontractors. [1]
Projects in the £25 million range can involve a main contractor with approximatel...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
The JCT and Extensions of Time
Most construction contracts will suffer some form of delay during its lifecycle. In all Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT) form of contracts, a delay event is called a “Relevant Event” and the extension of time is defined as an “Adjustment of the Completion Date”.
Whether during the design, t...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
The JCT and Relevant Events
The construction industry is full of jargon and it can be difficult to understand all the acronyms and terms used. It’s even more difficult when it comes to construction contracts. We’ve written this article to provide clarity on the term “Relevant Events” and what it means in Joint Contract...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Dealing with Errors, Divergencies and Discrepancies in Variations
The scenario
We put forward the following scenario to Jason Farnell, Adjudicator and CEDR Accredited Mediator.
"I'm working on an amended JCT D & B Subcontract where we're contracted to clad the entire building envelope from Ground to Roof.
An area of our scope had an inconsistency - part ...Read More
Sales & Marketing
Posted by Paul Heming
London Development Specification – 2. Entry Level
This first part to our London Development Specification series looks at Entry-Level specification.
As mentioned in our introduction we won't be assigning these to price points as location plays a far too significant role in pricing. What we will look at is seeing what the general offering is for ...Read More
Sales & Marketing
Posted by Paul Heming
London Development Specification – 1. An Introduction
We have recently received a significant amount of enquiries regarding the specification levels of new projects in London.
What to offer, why, what is the competition doing. We wanted to be able to give some clarity on what is happening in the marketplace so that developers can understand what the...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
NEC Contracts and Cash Flow Management
"I'm a Main Contractor Tendering for a project where the Contract will be an NEC Option A Contract.
We want to understand what the potential impacts of this Contract Type are in terms of Cash Flow and, the best management practices generally."
That’s the scenario that we put forward to Jason ...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Design and Build Contracts – Increase your profit
A Design and Build Contract is a contract where the Main Contractor offers to design and build a project for a price that includes both the design and construction.
What I found striking throughout my career is the lack of contractual knowledge of even some of the most highly-skilled construction...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Can I claim for loss of profit in variations?
The scenario:
I’m working on an unamended JCT 2016 Building Contract with a £3m lump sum Contract Sum. The Employer is looking to amend an element of the works and has issued an instruction to omit a relatively large portion (approximately 10% in financial terms) of our scope of works.
These ...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
The client is late issuing their Notice to Commence works on site – what should I do?
Ever wondered the best way to respond when your client is late issuing their Notice to Commence works on site?
We’ve put together a real-life scenario where this happened and asked Jason Farnell, Adjudicator and CEDR Accredited Mediator, to provide actionable guidance on how you can best manage...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
What happens when you are late issuing a Payment Notice?
We've all felt that pang of dread when you realise you're late to issue a payment notice on time, and it's on a questionable subcontractor valuation that you need to issue a Pay Less notice. What are your options when that happens?
Well, we put the following scenario to the experts at Commercial ...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Giving Notice – Project Lifecycle 13
On almost every project, whether you’re a Main or Subcontractor, you’ll have experienced a delay to your works due to a lack of access on site. The Contract states you’ll be granted unrestricted access in an area but that isn’t the case - you’re sharing the area, or the conditions in the a...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Notices to Commence – Project Lifecycle 12
A Notice to Commence (NTC) is a formal communication from the Client to the Contractor stating the date the Contractor can begin work.
The reason NTC’s are so important is they confirm the date when the contract performance starts and therefore, they're used to calculate the completion date and...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
PCSA Agreements – Project Lifecycle 11
Pre-Construction Services Agreements (PCSAs) are used to appoint design and build Subcontractors to carry out services before entering into contract and tend to be used as part of a strategy to remove risk.
PCSAs are generally advantageous as the early involvement of ‘Specialists’ can lead to...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Project Reviews – Project Lifecycle 10
For whatever reason, there is a whole list of names given for Project Review meetings in Construction. Depending on where you’ve worked, you’ve likely heard them referred to as ‘Project Reviews’, ‘Cost to Completes’, ‘MPR’s’, ‘CVR’s – the list goes on.
What shouldn’t cha...Read More
We’ve discussed cash-flow and its importance to running a project. Good cash-flow gives you flexibility and control during Sub-Contract procurement.
How often have you been offered a discount in trade for reduced payment terms by a Subcontractor? If your project is cash positive and you could a...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Cash is your best friend – Project Lifecycle 8
Cash is your best mate…
In all lines of business ‘Cash is King’, but in construction, it’s more critical than most. There are so many reasons why cash in your bank rather than in your clients is important – whether it’s to buy equipment, employ and pay subcontractors, or simply to imp...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Risks and Opportunities – Project Lifecycle 7
In any industry, for a project to be a success, a defined project strategy is critical - Construction is no different.
So, what’s the strategy on your project? How are you interacting with your client? Are there Value Engineering opportunities and key risks you need to focus on? Are there speci...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Christopher Barber
Stealth CDP
The design element of a contract represents one of the best opportunities for a contractor to increase margins on a project. It also represents one of the riskiest areas where you can lose margin. Ever been hit by a Stealth CDP (Contractor’s Design Portion)? If you have, there’s a good chance yo...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Design Delay Claims – Project Lifecycle 6
Last week we discussed the various tools to use to make sure you can claim for time lost during the design period.
I’m a firm believer that when you suffer delays in construction, the priority is to get an Extension of Time and following that, to recover the money associated. The question is - ...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Design Delays – Project Lifecycle 5
I’ve already mentioned that where Construction Contracts include design, my experience is that the success or failure of the programme, typically hinges on the success of the design period.
If like me, you’ve worked on contracts where your company had major design responsibility, design delay...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Understanding the contract – Project lifecycle 4
Understanding the contract is of absolute importance to the success of your project. Do you know how many days you have to give notice of a variation? What do you do when there is a delay event – are there particular rules on this?
Projects are not simple. Knowing how to act in difficult situat...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Design Management Process – Project Lifecycle 3
Where Construction Contracts include design, my experience is that the success or failure of the project typically hinges on the success of the design period.
At tender stage, understanding, and successfully negotiating a favourable Design Management Process will help you to plan and deliver the ...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Programme Negotiations – Project Lifecycle 2
Contract negotiation almost always involves compromise to achieve a document that is acceptable to all parties. Projects may succeed or fail as a direct result of the terms and conditions in the contract and the quality of the programme is no different.
Successfully negotiating a favourable progr...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Christopher Barber
Variations – The Elephant in the Room
I’ve got breaking news for you, and you heard it here first: A lot of people in the construction industry don’t like Quantity Surveyors. In fact, you could probably split the industry into three groups. A third of the industry don’t like what we do; a third of the industry don’t know what we...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Order of Precedence – Project Lifecycle 1
What is Order of Precedence in Contracts?
Construction Contracts are often very large and include lots of different Numbered Documents like the drawings, scope of works etc. To give these documents meaning and to rank their importance, many contracts include an ‘Order of Precedence’ Clause whic...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Christopher Barber
Maximising your Tender Handover
One of the most important meetings in a project is the tender handover meeting from estimating to QS. I’ve been in hundreds of these meetings and they’re a hot spot for waffle! So much is discussed that is completely unimportant and irrelevant, particularly at this stage of the project.
Some pr...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Christopher Barber
Undervalued CPD – improving your Construction Knowledge via Specialist Subcontractors
In my experience, when I think about the best QS’ that I’ve come into contact with, they all share one thing in common. Not only do they have the pre-requisite contractual knowledge to do the job, but they also have a really sound practical understanding of construction. By best I mean the QS wh...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Christopher Barber
Eggs in one basket – weighing up the risk of multi-letting packages to one subcontractor
I was letting a ventilation package to a subcontractor and there was a big AHU (air handling unit) partially connected to the package. With the AHU, my initial thoughts were to buy the unit and have the ventilation subcontractor install it. Although this was my planned method to proceed, at tender, ...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Christopher Barber
Bringing your construction team into the procurement process
It’s difficult not to feel isolated as a QS. Everyone working around you on a project tends to work within a team, whereas the QS tends to work as the sole lead on the commercial aspects of the project. Where you fit into the dynamics of the project is integral, but to make sure you’re really ef...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Christopher Barber
Understanding where materials are sourced
A few years ago, I was trying to source a carpet that had been specified by the architect. I knew a little about carpets and competitive rates, and the specified product was double the rate of similar products I’d seen in the past. I approached my flooring contractor to ask if there was an alterna...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Christopher Barber
Making the most of equal approved
When you’re handed a job as a QS, you want to find the potential financial gains that you can make based on what you’ve allowed versus the scope, and if there is an equal approved opportunity. Getting a good understanding of this upfront is one of the most effective and simplest ways of internal...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Christopher Barber
Squeezing every penny – Is it really worth it?
Knowing when to stop squeezing your supply chain is an important intuition that you develop with time. Most people involved in procurement see their main objective as buying at the lowest price possible. But is the lowest price the lowest cost?
As a QS, I have felt that other people within the bu...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Christopher Barber
Spec and Drawings – Minimising your risk and reducing cost
Procurement is one of the most time-consuming tasks for a QS and when I've tendered packages in the past, I normally chose the spec and drawings approach. But, from my experiences as a subcontractor from the other side of the table, I’ve also seen it used as an opportunity for the main contractor ...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Christopher Barber
C-Link Upgrade!
We’ve just undergone some product upgrades at C-Link. We're really happy with the changes and think they'll have a big impact in helping our connect professionals with specialist contractors, and improve the procurement process all round.
Supply Chains
With C-Link, Pros can now host their en...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Payment Provisions: JCT Design & Build
As is usual in JCT contracts there are two methods for determining payments, termed ‘stage’ and ‘periodic’ payments; both of which provide for monthly payments, the difference being in the method of determining what is to be paid. The Contract Particulars giving the option for which paymen...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Contractor Insurance Types
The complexities of insurance can be intimidating for many in the construction industry and it's easy to see why.
As legal documents, it's necessary for insurance contracts to be packed full of dense legal terminology – leading many to dismiss it as simply another regulatory hurdle to be overcome...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Payment Provisions – JCT Subcontracts
The sub-contract is drafted with the intention that valuations regime under the sub-contract should be linked to the Main Contract application dates, commencing with the Interim Valuation Date immediately following the commencement of a sub-contractor’s work on site. The due date for payment is 12...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Costs increase with tender prices static – feeling the squeeze?
With many manufacturers reporting further rises in raw material prices in the third quarter of 2017 and only a small proportion of Main Contractors increasing tender prices to compensate, many are anticipating a squeeze on construction margins in the coming months.
The Construction Products Assoc...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Sectional Contracts – Reading between the lines!
CREDIT: Jason Farnell, Commercial Risk Management
In the recent judgement in Vinci Construction UK Limited and Beumer Group UK Limited it was argued, under a contract which had been divided into sections, that the delay damages were ‘uncertain, inoperable and unenforceable’ and that therefore t...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Five trends shaping the future UK housing market
Changing demographics and evolution in technology are having a significant impact on the future of UK housing. Many are hoping that the nation’s housing crisis will be alleviated thanks to technological innovation. But five trends are on the rise and can’t be ignored. Combined, these five trends...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
When a Health and Safety Inspector Calls
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have been tasked with keeping people safe and healthy while at work since 1975. They are the body responsible for the encouragement, regulation and enforcement of workplace health, safety and welfare, and for research into occupational risks in Great Britain.
T...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Design and Build – ‘He who decides, designs!’
CREDIT: Jason Farnell, Commercial Risk Management
In an un-amended JCT design and build contract, the Contractor’s obligation in respect of design is to ‘complete the design’, meaning that the Client will have prepared initial designs for the project which need to be finalised by the Contract...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
UK Property Shortage – Practical Solutions
The UK’s property shortage: what practical solutions are being taken to tackle it?
“The housing market in this country is broken, and the cause is very simple: for too long, we haven’t built enough homes.”
With this powerful statement starts Fixing our broken housing market, the Housing Wh...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Design and Build – You’re the specialist!
CREDIT: Jason Farnell, Commercial Risk Management
In an un-amended JCT design and build sub-contract, the specialist Contractor’s obligation in respect of design is to ‘complete the design’ for the sub-contract works, including the selection of the specification of materials if not described ...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Choosing The Best Cladding For Your Residential Build Project
If you’re managing a residential build project and you’re looking for exterior cladding contractors, there are many factors to consider. Not only do main construction contractors need to assess the reputation and experience of the cladding specialists, but they also need to consider what type of...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Working With Piling Contractors For Your Project
If you require piling contractors for your next project, there is a lot that will need to be taken into consideration. Not only do you need to find the best contractors for the job, but you also must work together to determine the best approach. With that in mind, read on to discover how to successf...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Demolition Health And Safety Requirements
When working with demolition contractors, health and safety always takes paramount importance. Of course, this is the case when it comes to all types of construction, but there are specific requirements for demolition. The law states that structural alteration, dismantling, and demolition must be ca...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Building Contractors London – Components Of A Good Procurement Strategy
Building contractors London wide need to have an expert procurement strategy in place if they are to run every project efficiently and keep their costs down. The process of developing a procurement strategy can be broken into three steps: gathering and analysing project data, determining the preferr...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Deeds of Variation (DoV)
CREDIT: Jason Farnell, Commercial Risk Management
Those who can do, and those who can’t … compromise?
Perhaps it is a feature of the London developer-led construction & property market, but it does seem to me to be prevalent - I am of course referring to the practice of entering into Deeds...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
The construction industry of the future
Over the last decade, the world has seen a surge in new technologies that has transformed many industries. Company owners and employers of all labour sectors were encouraged to adapt their knowledge to these fast-moving changes that are deeply impacting our lives.
Even though innovation has been sl...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Managing Work at Height Effectively
The Work at Height Regulations place duties on employers to ensure that work at height is properly planned, appropriately supervised and carried out in a manner that is, so far as is reasonably practicable, safe.
To achieve this, it will involve ensuring that those involved in work at height are co...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Construction E-procurement!
Paul Heming, founder of procurement platform C-Link discusses the benefits of E-procurement.
The term 'E-procurement' refers to tendering processes carried out online and through information and networking systems, and may include; E-tendering, E-auctioning, E-invoicing, E-payment and so on.
The...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Margin delivery strategy – Project Control
CREDIT: Jason Farnell, Commercial Risk Management
With ‘best in class’ margins for general contractors being measured in single digit percentages, the need to secure the tendered margin is paramount for continued trading let alone growth. And let’s be careful here… margin is not profit ...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Redefining jurisdiction – don’t procrastinate
CREDIT: Jason Farnell, Commercial Risk Management
The recent High Court appeal judgement handed down by the Hon. Mr Justice Coulson in Mailbox (Birmingham) Ltd and Galliford Try Building Limited ([2017] EWHC1405) serves as a reminder about the structure and purpose of certain contract clauses; a wa...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Fork Lift Refresher Training
Fork Lift operators, even those who are trained and experienced, need to be routinely monitored in the workplace and, where necessary, retested or refresher trained to make sure they continue to operate lift trucks safely.
The Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA) believes that regular refresher tra...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Principal Designer Roles with respect to Temporary Works.
The Construction Design and Management Regulations (CDM) are the primary regulations for managing the health, safety and welfare of construction projects.
CDM applies to all building and construction work and includes new build, demolition, refurbishment, extensions, conversions, repair, decorati...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Extensions of Time – Nobody told me!
At the beginning of a contract, when relationships are being formed and the excitement of a brand new project is enthusiastically being embraced by everyone involved, human nature will usually preclude any action that might otherwise disturb the bonhomie. This might be understandable, but it is ce...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Fire Safety Training
All employees should undergo some form of basic Fire Safety training when they join a company, complemented by refresher courses on a regular basis. By doing this, staff will be prepared in the event of a fire, ensuring their own safety and the safety of other people on the premises.
It is vitally ...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Planning and Programming!
“I didn’t realise the time…..”
A frequent response from my teenage sons when we are late setting off for rugby training…. Nothing that a second grilling for lateness from the Head Coach can’t deal with!
Sadly performing to time is perhaps the single biggest universal failing in the con...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
C-Link Partner Harris Calnan Scoops RIBA Award!
A sublime project, constructed by builder Harris Calnan for photographer Juergen Teller, has recently been crowned RIBA London’s Building of the Year.
The brief was to utilise over 500m² of space to create a bright, flexible and welcoming set of areas; with a natural flow and sociability in add...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Cash is still king!
Cash is still king – applying, agreeing and collecting.
Whatever the size and profitability of a business, getting paid is essential and everyone in that business should treat cash collection as the single most important priority.
The reasons why businesses do not collect in the cash that is du...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Training and Development
Training and Development of Your Employees
Employers have a general duty to provide information, instruction and training to all their employees (see Section 2(2)(c) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974). This requirement is subject to the ‘so far as is reasonably practicable’ provis...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
£70m Rochdale Riverside Redevelopment
An exciting new scheme is just around the corner in Rochdale. The development known as Rochdale Riverside is a joint venture between Genr8 Developments and Kajima who are working closely in partnership with Rochdale Borough Council.
The exciting redevelopment had its planning application approved o...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Compliance when working with Asbestos
Recent prosecutions by the HSE have shown that there are still companies who are not following appropriate procedures to ensure that asbestos is located and managed, or remediated, correctly during building refurbishments.
In December 2014 two Northamptonshire firms pleaded guilty to a total of fou...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Best Procurement Practices!
The effectiveness of a contractual relationship will usually be dictated by how well the initial procurement process has been done and whether the contract fully reflects the intentions of the contracting parties.
Relationships and behaviour are strong influences for achieving successful outcomes....Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Retention… your money!
It is quite extraordinary to think that despite the apparently universal disdain for it, the antiquated and out-moded practice of deduction of retention is still prevalent and endorsed by industry standard forms of contract. In other words part of the value of the output of almost every company in...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
HS2: Full Speed Ahead
High Speed 2 (HS2), Britain’s single biggest infrastructure project of this millennium, cleared its final hurdle last week construction works will now begin in Spring.
The project received Royal Assent on 23 February and this Act of Parliament means the nine-year programme of works will start o...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Changes to JCT Design and Build
JCT Design and Build Contract 2016 – What is new and how does it affect you?
Plus ca change, plus ca la meme chose! What has changed, nothing much! The apportionment of risk between the Employer and the Contractor remains unchanged in the unamended, standard document and as always the imposi...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Environmental Management Systems
Environmental issues have come to the forefront in recent years with greater awareness amongst legislators, insurers, financiers, shareholders, customers, employees and neighbours. Concern for the environment has forced the international community to look at ways of reducing the impact on the enviro...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
£400m City Skyscraper
Yet another skyscraper has this week been approved for development in the City of London with Brookfield Developments and Make joining forces to deliver '1 Leadenhall Street', a 36-storey tower adjacent to Richie Rogers, Cheesegrater.
Comprising 538,000 sq ft of high specification office space, ...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Infinity Project Liverpool
Plans for a £250m project to extend Liverpool’s business district further north have been submitted for approval. Dubbed the ‘triple towers’ project, the scheme - by developer Elliot Group - includes three towers ranging in height from 27 to 39 storeys. The development will formally be referr...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Manual Handling Update
The HSE has revised guidance and produced a new toolkit to help organisations manage and mitigate against the risks associated with manual handling activities.
Manual handling injuries are part of a wider group of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD’s) which covers injury, damage or disorder of the ...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Record Keeping – Who needs to? You do!
In the competitive construction and property market only the best managed and administered companies will perform at the top end of the range of achievable margins: record keeping is a huge part of this.
An industry-wide shortcoming is the maintenance of adequate records, despite the widespread a...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Quantity Surveyors expecting difficult 2017
2016 closed with positive news for Construction in the UK as we enjoyed our largest growth in new orders according to an industry survey by the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS).
The survey concluded that improving order intake and a rebound in business conditions generally had...Read More
Contracts & Disputes
Posted by Paul Heming
Payment terms – A Call to Action
Good cash flow management is critical to the success of companies in every industry. In construction, where payment is typically received long after costs are incurred however, it is vital.
Poor payment practices by larger construction firms can cause real damage to those further down the supply ...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
HSE New Strategy – Helping Britain Work Well
Great Britain’s health and safety record is the envy of much of the world and 4see believe we should all be proud of this. Central to this effort is the focus we all place on protecting people by managing risk in a proportionate and effective way, supporting innovation and increasing productivity....Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Procurement problems ahead for Contractors
UK construction companies are reporting difficulties in procurement as a result of the steepest rise in prices during the last decade.
In what comes as the latest sign that the pound’s sharp fall since the referendum in June is raising import costs for UK businesses, the Chartered Institute of ...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Google’s Groundscaper
Google has confirmed plans to build a massive new UK headquarters in London which is seen by political commentators as a huge vote of confidence in post-Brexit Britain.
Google already has another two buildings under development at King’s Cross but this new 650,000 square foot complex will ma...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
London’s second tallest skyscraper
The tower known as ‘1 Undershaft’ will add to the City of London’s swelling sky-line and become the Square Mile’s tallest skyscraper if approved. Rising 73 storeys, the development is proposed to include London’s highest viewing gallery and restaurant as well as educational space, for whic...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Twickenham Redevelopment
In late 2015, the Rugby Football Union (RFU) drew up redevelopment plans to invest in excess of £50 million towards the revamp of the East Stand at Twickenham. The plans are part of a genuine attempt to enhance the corporate hospitality offering at Twickenham with Premier League grounds such as A...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Regeneration in Liverpool
An innovative construction scheme is set to breathe new life into an area of Liverpool long overdue for regeneration that will help to reinvigorate the region and potentially boost its economic standing within the city.
Sigma, which is a private rented sector Construction specialist, has secured ...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Bidding on Civil Engineering project in Worcestershire begins!
The bidding and Procurement process has begun for the final phase of a Civil Engineering Project on the A4440 Worcester Southern Link Road and Specialist Contractors with relevant expertise are being encouraged to tender for the project, which is valued at £70 million.
Worcestershire City Counci...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
£60million project kicks off in Coventry
C-Link is pleased to announce that work on a £60 million construction project that intends to develop student accommodation and shopping facilities in Bishop Gate in Coventry has begun. The work will be completed on the site of the former Royal Mail building, with mechanical diggers having recentl...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Construction at the University of Hull!
University Partnerships Programme (UPP), a PFI scheme between the various Universities and Jarvis plc to build and maintain student accommodation, has announced that it is set to deliver a new construction scheme for the University of Hull that is valued at £130 million.
The organisation i...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
House Building Contractors…
...Confront “Flawed” Completion Stats
The recent housing completion figures released by the government have stirred up controversy amongst house building contractors, many of whom have taken umbrage as they believe the figures to be a “flawed” representation of what the sector is actually...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Midlands Construction Amongst The Most Stable in the UK
Despite recent reports that construction in the Midlands, specifically the East Midlands, has been struggling in recent months, recent research has demonstrated that Specialist Contractors in the area are actually at the least risk of insolvency in the UK. An insolvency trade body named R3 surveyed ...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Construction Industry Shows Signs of Recovery
There was a lot made about the potential contraction of the Construction industry in recent months, with a number of surveys and statistics showing that the industry has been struggling somewhat in the wake of the EU referendum. However, in line with the latest Economic figures from the Government, ...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Scottish Construction Calls for Tech Revolution
Stephen Good, who is the Chief Executive of the Construction Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC), which is a support group that encourages those in Construction to collaborate with academics with the aim of creating new technology that will benefit the industry as a whole, has stated that Scotland req...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
East Midlands Skills Shortage Causing Issues
As an industry it is becoming more and more evident to all in Construction that we are struggling to attract talented young professionals. There are numerous reports that go into detail on how the industry needs to step up its game in terms of attracting A-Level students and many claim that Construc...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
New Tech – Bendable Concrete Could Become a Reality
Construction has always thrived on the introduction of new technologies that Specialist Contractors can use to provide innovative solutions. We are delighted to read about a brand new form of concrete that is currently being developed that has the capacity to bend. Scientists from Nanyang Technologi...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Construction Workforce Increasing
There has been a lot made of the skills gap in Construction in recent months, particularly in regards to how the industry needs to do more to attract A-Level students and other youngsters towards the industry by highlighting how their talents can be applied to various aspects of Construction.
Whi...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Crossrail 2 Briefing Day To Be Held in London
Transport for London has announced that it is planning a special briefing day in mid-September that will allow the Construction industry to find out more details regarding Crossrail 2 and potential contracts related to the development. Crossrail 2 will serve both London and the wider South East area...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Gilbert-Ash Sees Turnover Increase
Will all of the industry speculation that still surrounds the prospect of a Brexit it is refreshing to see that there are a number of companies that seem to be running counter to the assertions from some Professionals that Construction is set to enter into recession.Belfast-based Gilbert-Ash is one ...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Slow Investment Leads to Faltering Construction Growth
Despite a number of positive signs that Construction is set to rebound from the issues caused by Brexit, in the short-term it appears that hesitance on the part of investors is leading to faltering growth in the sector. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) conducted a survey for the t...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Saint-Gobain Outlines Positive Brexit Outlook
One of the biggest issues that surrounds the success of the Leave campaign in the EU referendum, at least when it comes to Construction, is the effect that the decision may have on domestic companies and their relationships with those in Europe. Some believe that Britain’s exit from the EU could r...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Post-Brexit Construction Boom Predicted
By now we have all heard about the rather notable slump that Construction has undergone as a result of the uncertainty surrounding the Brexit referendum, with statistics showing that the industry experienced a downturn during June 2016. Most alarmingly, the period running up to the referendum saw th...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
PLanBEE Furthers Its Ambitions
A skills and careers program in the North East has joined forces with Gateshead College with the aim of developing its program further and offering more opportunities for youngsters who are looking to enter the Construction sector.
PlanBEE, which was launched by Ryder Architecture in 2013, with t...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
University Construction Increases
Recently reported figures suggest British universities are investing in construction more than ever before. With universities aiming to make use of new technologies and interesting architecture to lure top students to their institutions, investment is up over 43% during the last few months. The High...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Gatwick Bosses Confirm £200 Million in Construction Investment for The Airport
Since Gatwick Airport came under new ownership in 2009, there has been an increasing commitment to improving its infrastructure and investing in construction. Bosses at the airport are apparently committed to investing £2.5 billion into various projects up until 2021, with £1.2 billion having alre...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Morrisoe Doubles Profit
Morrisoe, which is one of the leading Construction groups in the UK, specialising in groundworks and reinforced concrete frame construction, has delivered more positive news to the industry with the announcement that it has almost doubled profits based on the improving performance of the commercial ...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
London Enjoys High Levels of Construction Orders
Construction appears to be on the upswing in London and other areas of the UK, if recent figures released by the Office of National Statistics are accurate. London continues to dominate the sector, having seen an increase in new orders to the tune of 30% year on year, which is a remarkable growth co...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Construction Industry Questions
Latest Office of National Statistics Figures
The Office of National Statistics (ONS) recently released figures suggesting the Construction industry has seen a downturn during the first quarter of 2016, with their research apparently demonstrating a 1.1% drop in the amount of work completed, with th...Read More
Commercial Management
Posted by Paul Heming
Housebuilding Sector Possibly Affected by EU Uncertainty
We have already spoken at length about how the possibility of a Brexit appears to be affecting the Construction industry, with uncertainty relating to the UK’s position in the European Union (EU) possibly leading to the growth of the industry being tempered during the first and second quarters of ...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Construction Industry Growth Tempered By EU Uncertainty
We spoke last week about how a Brexit could affect the Construction industry, with one of the primary issues raised being the level of uncertainty that surrounds Britain’s European Union (EU) status and how it is causing issues for the industry in the present day, as well as potentially leading to...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
C-Link is the Key to reducing Procurement Periods in 2016
In our previous blogs we have touched on the major issues surrounding construction procurement activities including, but not limited to, tight programmes and the fact that many Professionals lose precious time scouring the market for the most appropriate Specialists for their project. With order boo...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
How a Brexit may Affect the Construction Industry?
The hot-button political issue at the moment is Britain’s status as a member of the European Union. The possibility of a Brexit is very real and it is important that all of us, including construction professionals, consider what might happen if Britain does leave the EU.
Current industry opinio...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Short Programmes and the effect on Professionals and Specialists
Achieving efficiency in the procurement process has long been a problem in the construction industry with many Professionals finding it difficult to source the right Specialist for their project within the timeframe allocated. As we know all too well, a lack of time is inherent to most construction ...Read More
Procurement
Posted by Paul Heming
Are you ready for the future?
Construction 2025 Report
The UK Government published its Construction 2025 Report in order to outline the steps that will be taken to deliver continued growth in the industry, such as reforming the existing planning system and funding for key infrastructure projects.
The Government worked al...Read More
Contract & Disputes
Procurement
Contracts & Disputes
