Construction Contracts: Law and Management” – A Comprehensive Guide for Industry Professionals

Overview

Construction Contracts: Law and Management” by Will Hughes is an essential textbook for construction industry professionals and students. This 5th edition is a treasure trove of knowledge, perfectly tailored for individuals pursuing degrees or careers in Building, Civil Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, and Construction Management. It skillfully balances academic rigor and practical relevance, making it a go-to resource for understanding the intricacies of construction contracts, especially within the UK legal framework.

Content and Structure

The book covers a broad range of topics crucial for understanding construction contracts. It includes chapters on the UK construction sector, roles and relationships, various contracting methods like general contracting and design-build, and aspects of construction management and collaborative contracting. The book also explores risk allocation, procurement decisions, contract choice, tendering, liabilities, obligations of contractors and employers, time management, payment, and dispute resolution methods. This extensive scope makes the book a comprehensive reference for those involved in construction contracts and management​.

Authors’ Expertise

The authors bring significant expertise to the book. Will Hughes is a Professor of Construction Management and Economics, Ronan Champion is a Partner at surveying firm Champion Pearce LLP, and John Murdoch is an Emeritus Professor of Law. Their combined knowledge ensures the book’s academic and practical relevance.

Target Audience and Approach

In the introduction, the authors clarify that the book primarily targets students in construction-related courses, including Building, Civil Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, and Building Surveying, as well as postgraduate courses in Construction Management and Project Management. The book assumes a foundational understanding of English law, especially contract and tort law, and focuses on construction-specific aspects. The authors emphasize that their goal is to elucidate the fundamental principles of construction contract law rather than provide a clause-by-clause analysis of specific contracts. The use of standard-form contracts like JCT, FIDIC, NEC3, and ICC in examples reflects their widespread application in the UK and internationally. This approach aims to provide insights applicable to a broader international audience.

Reader Advisory

The authors caution that their book is not intended to produce construction lawyers but to equip non-lawyers with the knowledge to resolve simple disputes and recognize when professional legal advice is needed. They advocate for a level of understanding that enables construction practitioners to instruct and work effectively with construction lawyers, a goal they hope resonates with all construction students and practitioners.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Comprehensive Coverage: Extensively covers various construction contracts, including JCT, NEC3, and FIDIC.
• Expert Authorship: Authored by renowned experts in construction management and law.
• Practical and Theoretical Balance: Offers a blend of practical examples and theoretical knowledge.
• Updated Edition: Includes the latest developments in construction contract law.
• International Relevance: While UK-focused, it provides insights applicable globally.
• Student-Friendly: Tailored for construction-related courses and postgraduate studies.
• Highly Rated: Received positive reviews and a high rating from readers.

Cons:

• UK-Centric: Primarily based on UK law, which might limit its applicability in other legal jurisdictions.
• Text Density: Some readers may find the dense text intimidating.
• Not for Legal Professionals: More suited for non-lawyers in the construction industry than for construction lawyers.

Why It’s a Must-Have:

“Construction Contracts: Law and Management” is indispensable for anyone in the construction industry aiming to gain a comprehensive understanding of contract law. It demystifies complex legal concepts, making them accessible to non-lawyers. The book’s practical approach, coupled with the authors’ expertise, equips readers with the knowledge to handle construction contracts effectively, anticipate legal issues, and make informed decisions. Whether you’re a student, a practicing professional, or a construction manager, this book is a valuable asset that enhances your legal literacy in the construction domain.

Reception and Ratings

Overall Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6/5.0 (57 ratings)

Selected Reviews

• M. MacLeish: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.0/5.0 “Value and succinct! Noted it was based on UK law, which only matters for specific legal references. Contract characteristics seem in harmony.”
• Archib: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0/5.0 “Excellent for RIBA Part 3 students. Simple, to the point, and a must-have for aspiring architects. Dense but worth the read.”
• NJ2016: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0/5.0 “Very informative, easy and interesting read. Discusses all elements of contracts. Highly recommended for those working with JTC contracts.”
• Anonymous Reviewer: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0/5.0 “Comparable to the fourth edition. Well set out, informative for both Construction Lawyers and non-Lawyers.”
• Sofia Sonia Chrysochoou: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0/5.0 “Book arrived in very good condition.”
• NBee: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0/5.0 “Essential for my master’s degree and work. Provides invaluable information on complex subjects of law and construction.”

Summary

“Construction Contracts: Law and Management” garners high acclaim, with a strong average rating of 4.6 stars. Users praise its value, clarity, and comprehensive coverage of construction contracts, especially noting its usefulness for students and professionals in architecture and construction law. Its focus on UK law is highlighted as an important aspect for those needing specific legal references. The book is recommended for its in-depth analysis and readability, making it an essential resource for both academic and professional pursuits in the construction industry.

Conclusion

“Construction Contracts: Law and Management” is an essential read for students and professionals in the construction industry. Its comprehensive coverage, expert authorship, and practical approach make it a highly recommended resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of construction law and contract management.