Explore the key contractual and dispute-related issues affecting construction businesses

Building Contracts and Construction Disputes: Managing Risk in a Changing Landscape

The legal and commercial risk profile of construction projects has changed significantly in recent years. From enhanced building safety obligations and extended liability periods through to increasing scrutiny of supply chains, insurance arrangements and remediation responsibilities, contractors are operating in a more complex environment than ever before.

This practical seminar will explore the key contractual and dispute-related issues affecting construction businesses and provide guidance on identifying, managing and allocating risk effectively.

Who Should Attend?

The session is aimed at directors, commercial managers, project managers, consultants, subcontractors and in-house legal teams, and others in the construction sector seeking to understand the latest legal developments and the practical steps that can be taken to protect their business, projects and profitability.

Topics will include:

· Reviewing building contracts and identifying key risk provisions before signing;

· Collateral warranties and third-party rights, including common pitfalls and negotiation strategies;

· Insurance obligations and ensuring adequate protection throughout the project lifecycle;

· The impact of the Building Safety Act and evolving building safety obligations;

· Extended liability under the Defective Premises Act and the implications for completed projects and historic works;

· Construction disputes, including litigation, adjudication, negotiation and alternative dispute resolution;

· Preserving contractual claims and defending allegations relating to defects, delay and performance; and

· Practical strategies for avoiding disputes and resolving issues before they escalate into formal proceedings.

Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the contractual and dispute risks currently shaping the construction sector, together with practical measures that can be implemented immediately within their organisations to reduce risk, protect commercial positions and avoid costly disputes.

Date: Wednesday, 10 February 2027

Time: 9:15am – 1pm

Venue: CITB NI, 17 Dundrod Road, Crumlin, Co Antrim BT29 4SR

Programme:

9:15-9:30am: Registration, Tea & Coffee

9:30-9:45am: Presentation on CITB NI Products and Services

9:45am-1pm: Building Contracts and Construction Disputes

Trainer Overview:

Presenters

Lisa Boyd is a Partner in the Construction & Engineering team at Eversheds Sutherland. Lisa has over 20 years’ experience and advises employers, contractors, funders and project stakeholders on the procurement, delivery and operation of construction projects across a range of sectors. Her practice includes contract drafting and negotiation, risk management, project advisory work, dispute avoidance and the resolution of complex construction disputes. Lisa regularly advises on issues relating to defects, remediation, collateral warranties, professional appointments and building safety legislation.

Tim Nelson is an associate construction lawyer in the Construction & Engineering team at Eversheds Sutherland. Tim advises clients on both contentious and non-contentious construction matters, including contract negotiation, project delivery, risk allocation and dispute resolution. He works with a broad range of clients across the construction industry and has particular experience advising on claims arising from defects, delays and contractual performance issues.

Eversheds Sutherland's Construction & Engineering team advises clients across the full project lifecycle, from procurement and contract negotiation through to dispute avoidance, adjudication, litigation and remediation projects. The team regularly acts for contractors, developers, consultants, funders and public sector bodies on some of the most significant construction and infrastructure projects across the UK and Ireland.

Drawing on their experience advising construction businesses on live projects and disputes, Lisa and Tim will provide practical guidance and insights that attendees can take away and apply immediately within their organisations.

Cost:

FREE

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Description supplied by the event organiser.