"Keating on Construction Contracts" is a comprehensive legal text written by renowned experts in the field of construction law. The book is part of a series edited by The Hon. Sir Vivian Furst Ramsey and Stephen Furst, QC. Here is a detailed overview of the book, including its key themes, plot summary, and critical reception:
Key Themes
- Construction Law Basics: The book provides an authoritative commentary on all issues related to construction contracts, covering the history and principles governing building contracts, their practical application, and their interpretation by the courts.
- Legislation and Case Law: It includes detailed discussions on relevant legislation, case law, EC law, and standard forms of contracts such as FIDIC, NEC3, JCT Forms of Contracts, and ICE Conditions of Contract.
- Practical Application: The book offers in-depth practical help in a concise style, discussing legal principles, analyzing judicial decisions, interrogating standard forms, and interpreting legislation.
- Building Safety and Defect Legislation: The 12th edition includes a new chapter dedicated to building safety and defect legislation, covering key provisions of recent regulations such as the Building (Higher-Risk Buildings Procedures) (England) Regulations 2023 and decisions of the First-tier Tribunal and Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber).
- Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): The ADR chapter has been updated to explain the effect of Churchill v Merthyr Tydfil CBC EWCA Civ 1416 regarding the Court’s power to compel parties to mediate their disputes.
- Standard Building Contracts: Chapter 21 on JCT has been updated in respect of the Standard Building Contract 2024.
Plot Summary
The book is structured to provide a comprehensive guide to construction contracts. It begins with an overview of the historical and legal principles governing building contracts. It then delves into the practical application of these principles, including discussions on standard forms of contracts and recent judicial decisions.
Critical Reception
- Renowned Authority: The book is recognized as a classic in the field of construction law, known for its accessible style and reliable authority.
- Practical Help: It is praised for providing detailed and authoritative commentary that offers in-depth practical help to solicitors, barristers, and construction professionals.
- Recent Updates: The 12th edition has received positive reviews for its updates on building safety and defect legislation, ADR, and standard building contracts, reflecting the evolving landscape of construction law.
Editions and Reviews
- Editions: The book has been published in multiple editions, with the 12th edition being the latest. Each edition has been well-received for its comprehensive coverage and practical insights.
- Reviews: The book has been reviewed positively by legal professionals and scholars, with the 8th edition receiving a favorable review for its comprehensive coverage of construction law principles and practical application.
In summary, "Keating on Construction Contracts" is a seminal work in the field of construction law, providing authoritative commentary and practical guidance on all aspects of construction contracts. Its comprehensive coverage, accessible style, and reliable authority make it a first port of call for research in this area.