Construction delays cover how and why a project falls behind schedule, including problems with weather, site access, supply chains, workmanship, changes to the scope, and contract disputes over extensions of time. A solicitor in this area helps clients who are building, owning, or financing projects to assess liability for delay, obtain extensions, or pursue or defend claims for delay damages. The work often determines project viability, cost overruns, and risk allocation between contractor, client, and funders.
What a solicitor handles in these matters
Delays arise from contract terms, programme dependencies, and site conditions. A solicitor handles drafting or reviewing extension of time notices, assessing whether events qualify as excusable delay, and negotiating or pursuing delay damages, liquidated damages, or loss and expense claims. They interpret standard forms such as JCT and NEC, coordinate with engineers and commercial teams, and manage disputes through adjudication, arbitration, or litigation.