Delay and Disruption in Construction Contracts
By: Keith Pickavance
About This Book
The first edition of Delay and Disruption in Construction Contracts was reviewed in CILL, June 1998, p1396. This book remains the most comprehensive English work dedicated to delay, disruption and related issues and remains the leader in its field. The second edition considers in detail the implications of recent cases such as Henry Boot Constructions (UK) Limited v Mal Maision Hotel (Manchester) Limited and Ascon Contracting Limited v Alfred McAlpine Construction (Isle of Man) Limited. Further, the second edition is significantly expanded with a number of additional chapters. Of particular interest and importance are the separate chapters on disruption and the use of computers for the presentation of claims. As with the first edition the second edition is highly recommended and essential reading for those dealing with contractual claims.
AI Overview
"Delay and Disruption in Construction Contracts" by Keith Pickavance is a comprehensive guide to the complex and potentially costly issues of delay and disruption in construction projects. Here is a detailed overview of the book:
Key Themes
- International Perspective: The book provides a comparative analysis of the law related to delay and disruption in various jurisdictions, including Australia, Canada, England and Wales, Hong Kong, Ireland, New Zealand, the United States, and civil law jurisdictions.
- Standard Forms: It includes commentary and comparison of standard forms from different countries, including major new forms.
- Legal and Technical Aspects: The book considers all aspects of proving a claim from both legal and technical perspectives, making it a valuable resource for both legal professionals and construction managers.
- Extensions of Time (EOTs): The book offers a thorough analysis of the law relating to EOTs, highlighting the distinction between delays to progress and delays to completion.
Plot Summary
The book covers the entire lifecycle of a construction project, from inception to completion and beyond. It addresses how delays and disruptions can impact building projects of any scale. The author provides a detailed examination of the causes of delay, including weather conditions, ground conditions, failure to give access to the site, acts of third parties, and acts of nominated sub-contractors and suppliers.
Critical Reception
- Pre-eminent Guide: The book is cited by the judiciary as a leading textbook in court decisions worldwide, as seen in the case of Mirant v Ove Arup EWHC 918 (TCC).
- Comprehensive Coverage: It is noted for filling a significant gap in construction law literature, providing a comprehensive overview of delay and disruption issues.
- Usefulness: While the book is highly regarded, readers outside the UK may find it less useful due to the extensive focus on clauses in UK standard form contracts.
Editions and Availability
The book has been published in multiple editions, with the most recent being the 5th edition. It is available through various publishers, including Taylor & Francis and Sweet and Maxwell.
Author Background
Keith Pickavance, the author, is a renowned expert in delay analysis and time management. He first qualified as an architect in 1972 and later obtained a law degree in 1978. He has extensive experience in construction management, dispute resolution, and expert witness services, which he leverages in his writing.
In summary, "Delay and Disruption in Construction Contracts" by Keith Pickavance is a seminal work that provides a comprehensive understanding of the legal and technical aspects of delay and disruption in construction projects. Its international perspective, detailed analysis of standard forms, and thorough examination of EOTs make it an invaluable resource for professionals in the field.