Blog

Placefirst Construction Ltd v Car Construction (North East) Ltd

The case of Placefirst Construction Ltd v Car Construction (North East) Ltd [2025] EWHC 100 (TCC) has shed light on the crucial issue of payment and payless notices in construction contracts, and how disputes over these notices can impact enforcement proceedings.

The Building Safety Act 2022 and Adjudication

In the wake of the Grenfell disaster, the Building Safety Act 2022 was born. It is aimed at preventing substandard construction, rectifying dangerous and uninhabitable buildings that are a risk to occupiers and those that are high fire risk.

Adjudication Result for couple who waited six years for a resolution

In July 2017, Mr. and Mrs. A engaged a contractor to undertake an extension and internal renovations at their residential property. The project was governed by a JCT Building Contract for a Homeowner/Occupier who has not appointed a consultant to oversee the work (2015).

Navigating the Complexities of "Smash and Grab" Adjudications: Insights from Bell Building Ltd v TClarke Contracting Ltd

In the recent case of Bell Building Ltd v TClarke Contracting Ltd [2024] EWHC 1929 (TCC) the court upheld the enforcement of an adjudicators decision in a “smash and grab” case where the adjudicator awarded a sum greater than that claimed in the referral.

When Construction Contractors Become Insolvent

When construction contractors become insolvent (whether by administration, winding-up, or other means) there is often a significant financial knock-on effect on their immediate subcontractors and suppliers. Many of these entities will find themselves left short of payments owed by the insolvent company.

First Law of the Jungle – Know who you are dealing with!

When procuring a construction contract, the first process when considering a contractor or sub-contractor is due diligence. On a daily basis when dealing with dispute enquiries, time after time we see problems from the very start as we explore the identity and status of the parties for legal proceedings, conflicts of interest, creditworthiness and solvency.

Liability for Construction Defects – Practical Considerations

Defects in construction works amount to a breach of contract entitling the employer to damages. HW Nevill (Sunblest) v William Press and Son (1981). In the absence of defects clause the Employer is entitled to damages, period, for any unremedied defects.

Contract Administrators - What to Consider

Is your construction contract being administered properly? Read our blog on what you need to consider when selecting a Contract Administrator or Employer’s Agent.

Illegal VAT Invoice Payment Clauses

In our latest blog we explore the common practice of clauses that require a valid VAT invoice in order to trigger the payment process. These clauses are illegal as are many other clauses imposing conditions for payment.