Contract administration issues

Grade II Listed Properties – UK

This matter involved a major refurbishment and extension of high-end Grade II Listed properties on a large rural estate in Herefordshire.

The building owner launched a claim against the architect, alleging a wide range of failures in the performance of their contract administration duties.  These related to the adequacy of their advice regarding procurement strategy, the process of issuing instructions and controlling the progress of works on site, and their acceptance of a variety of allegedly defective works.

WJM&P were engaged as the architectural experts by solicitors acting for the insurers of the architect.  We visited the site to investigate the alleged defects, reviewed extensive archives of documents and witness statements, attended experts’ meetings and prepared expert reports and an experts’ joint statement for exchange.  We also provided advice regarding the building owner’s extensive Scott Schedule of allegations.

The matter was settled by negotiation shortly prior to the hearing.