Delay and disruption

Delay or disruption affecting the progress of the works on a construction project is dealt with in different ways, depending on the cause of it and its impact on the contractor’s ability to complete the works in accordance with the contractual programme. It is important to understand that delay and disruption are different concepts: see Practice Note: Delay and disruption in construction projects.

It is in both parties’ best interests to ensure that there is a full mechanism for dealing with delay and disruption in their building contract, and that the mechanism is implemented correctly and followed to the letter.

The contractor's programme

The programme is an important document in any construction project. It assists the contractor to organise the project and plan the execution of the works, but it also helps the employer and contract administrator to monitor the progress of the works and to assess delays to the works, especially by reference to the 'critical path' (see Q&A: What is the critical path?).

Standard form construction contracts approach the programme in different ways, and give it differing levels of importance. See Practice

To view the latest version of this document and thousands of others like it, sign-in with LexisNexis or register for a free trial.

TAKE A FREE TRIAL

Latest Construction News

FIDIC signs three-year MoU with Saudi Contractors Authority

The International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC) has signed a three-year memorandum of understanding with the Saudi Contractors Authority to support development in the construction sector and promote best practices in contract management. This agreement covers the use of FIDIC contracts in Saudi Arabia, capacity building initiatives, professional certification, and strategies for dispute avoidance. It also establishes a joint task force to ensure alignment of guidance.

GLA consults on draft London Plan Guidance for housebuilding support

The Greater London Authority (GLA) has published draft London Plan Guidance proposing time-limited changes to cycle parking requirements, housing design guidance, and a new planning route for affordable housing delivery. The consultation follows emergency measures announced by the Mayor of London and Government in October 2025 aimed at accelerating housebuilding and unlocking stalled sites across the capital. The consultation will close on 22 January 2026.

Public Procurement Review Service - results to September 2025

The Crown Commercial Service (CCS) has published its latest Public Procurement Review Service (PPRS) results, covering cases from January 2018 to September 2025, showing the issues raised and the resolution of cases investigated under the PPRS.

DESNZ consults on Storage of Carbon Dioxide Regulations 2011 review

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has launched a consultation to review the Storage of Carbon Dioxide (Access to Infrastructure) Regulations 2011. The consultation seeks input on potential amendments that reflect the current policy environment for carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS). Proposed changes aim to support the establishment of first-of-a-kind CCUS infrastructure, facilitate future market development, and advance both domestic and global emissions reduction policy objectives. This review is part of broader efforts to progress the UK's transition to a self-sustaining CCUS market. The consultation will close on 6 February 2026.