Legal advice and services for contractors

Construction contractors face unique legal challenges and risks in today's complex building environment.

We understand smaller contractors and sub-contractors need swift, practical advice that considers site realities, cash flow demands, and project timelines.

Our experience in regularly dealing with the biggest contractors and developers is vital for smaller and sub-contractor clients in negotiating fair terms, challenging onerous conditions, and ensuring payment security. We know which points to push on and how the other party and it's lawyers are likely to approach issues.

Services and experience

• Negotiate limitation of liability clauses to cap financial exposure on projects

• Advise on retention clauses, payment terms, and milestone payment schedules

• Review and amend indemnity clauses to protect against third-party claims

• Negotiate variation procedures and rates to prevent scope creep disputes

• Serve Payment Notices and Pay Less Notices under the Construction Act to secure payment

• Initiate adjudication proceedings to recover unpaid invoices within 28 days

• Pursue extension of time claims for delays caused by variations, late instructions, or weather events

• Recover loss and expense claims for disruption, prolongation, and acceleration costs

• Defend against liquidated damages claims and contractual penalties

• Handle final account disputes and retention release issues

• Defend against defect claims during defects liability periods (typically 12 months)