Construction law fundamentals

This section provides an introduction to construction law. It includes introductory guides to construction law and construction disputes which are aimed at trainee solicitors and others who are new to construction as a practice area. The first of these guides focuses on the basic principles that apply to construction law and projects, including numerous links to other material that provides more comprehensive information on the topics covered. The latter looks at the work of a construction disputes lawyer, the types of disputes

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Latest Construction News

High Court confirms assignee’s right to adjudicate under JCT Contract and Scheme for Construction Contracts (Paragon Group Ltd v FK Facades)

Construction analysis: This case arose from an application for summary judgment to enforce an adjudication decision which awarded liquidated damages to the assignee of the Employer’s benefit under an amended Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT) Minor Works Contract 2016. The contractor challenged enforcement on the basis that (i) the assignee did not have any right to refer a dispute to adjudication and/or (ii) the dispute referred did not arise under the contract. The Technology and Construction Court provided helpful clarification that, on a proper interpretation of the adjudication provisions of the JCT contract and Part I of the Scheme for Construction Contracts, the assignee did indeed have the right to refer a dispute to adjudication, and the dispute referred was one which arose under the contract. Written by Mathias Cheung, barrister at Atkin Chambers and counsel for the successful claimant.

Construction weekly highlights—29 January 2026

This week's edition of Construction weekly highlights includes the Building Safety Regulator’s (BSR)’s transition to a stand alone body, the Welsh Government’s guidance on cancellation notices and project transfers, Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s (MHCLG)’s launch of a consultation on building control processes for telecommunications work, a Privy Council decision on FIDIC Yellow Book claims discipline (UBC v WASA), analysis of the implications of the Planning and Infrastructure Act for the energy sector, draft Procurement Act 2023 amendment regulations, a Commercial Court decision confirming tribunal jurisdiction over exclusion-clause issues (MS “V1” GmbH & Co KG v SY Co Ltd), the Construction Leadership Council (CLC)’s warning of a weak early-2026 outlook, and the construction sector’s response to the Warm Homes Plan.

Society of Contruction Law (Singapore) issues protocol on experts' joint statements in arbitration

The Society of Construction Law (Singapore) (SCL(S)) has issued a protocol on the use of experts' joint statements in arbitration proceedings. The protocol, prepared by the SCL(S) Thought Leadership Committee, is intended for use by experts, tribunals and counsel in both Singapore domestic arbitrations and Singapore-seated international arbitrations. Its purpose is to promote constructive engagement between experts, helping them clarify key issues and differences so that tribunals can address disputed matters within the time allocated for expert evidence. This protocol is the first in a planned series by SCL(S), intended to contribue to education, study and research in construction law and related field.

BSR announces transition to standalone body under MHCLG

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has announced that it has become a standalone organisation as of 27 January 2026, moving from the Health and Safety Executive to an arm’s‑length body under the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. This development supports the government’s plan to establish a single construction regulator, identified as a key recommendation of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. BSR intends to continue working to promote competence and higher standards in the built environment and to encourage the culture change required to support the delivery of more safe homes and the remediation of unsafe buildings. The transition is accompanied by an operational reset in its role as the building control authority for higher‑risk buildings. BSR reports that efficiency measures and its Innovation Unit are contributing to improved operational delivery through combining regulatory experience with industry knowledge to target guidance and education effectively. Commenting on the move, Acting Chief Executive Officer of BSR, Charlie Pugsley, said the transition signals a broader responsibility beyond high-rise buildings, with a focus on improving operational delivery and driving competence, regulatory guidance and safety standards across buildings in England.