Construction contracts law and management, 3rd edition
John Murdoch and Will Hughes

£22.99 plus postage & packing
CBD Stock No: 2749

This paperback of nearly 400 pages makes interesting reading for those who are concerned with the everyday life of construction contracts. It is a reference book for those who are already in positions where knowledge of construction contractual law is advantageous. This applies particularly to builders, lawyers, contracts managers and to some clients. The book will appeal to the practising contracts manager, although it is primarily aimed at the postgraduate student of construction management.

The authors, both from the University of Reading, have assimilated the important factors in preparation of contracts on both sides of the contractual fence. They highlight the many recent developments in the standard construction contracts forms, including relevant aspects of the Woolf reforms and the CDM regulations. The New Engineering Contract and the GC/Works are also covered.

The writers indicate that the purpose of the book is to give guidance to those primarily concerned with construction management. Discussion of the law, together with relevant case histories, is presented to help managers foresee when a contract may be heading in a wrong direction. This should enable them to rectify the situation without having to resort to litigation.

The methodical chapter sequence allows readers to follow the typical course of events and, sometimes, problems. Initial chapters describe the UK industry, roles and relationships, and general contracting. The several methods of management are described and the types of contract are explained. Tendering procedures and contractual liabilities are well covered.

The increasing responsibilities of designers in safety law is also discussed. Later chapters cover contract duration, payments and claims, with reference to determination, nomination and adversarial disputes concluding the work.

The authors, who are knowledgeable and experienced, have made this book interesting and informative. I recommend it to all for whom its content would be of use.

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