Course Overview

Construction Contracts & Legal Issues is a comprehensive self-paced online course designed to provide construction professionals with a thorough understanding of the legal frameworks, contract structures, and risk management strategies essential for successful project delivery. The course covers the principles of contract law, the formation and administration of construction contracts, the roles and responsibilities of contracting parties, and the management of claims and disputes. Participants will explore standard forms of contracts, key contractual terms, and the practical realities of contract management in the construction industry. This training is suitable for project managers, contract administrators, quantity surveyors, engineers, and anyone involved in construction project procurement and delivery.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, learners will be able to:

Understand the principles of contract law and their application to construction projects.
Identify and interpret the roles, responsibilities, and obligations of contracting parties.
Explain the process of contract formation, including key components and standard forms of construction contracts.
Analyze and manage contractual risks, liabilities, and warranties.
Apply effective contract administration practices, including communication, documentation, and change management.
Recognize and address issues related to payment, delays, defects, and completion.
Understand dispute avoidance and resolution processes, including claims management and damages.
Demonstrate knowledge of relevant legislation, employment law, and health and safety regulations as they relate to construction contracts.
Uphold professional ethics and best practices in contract management.

12-Module Course Outline

Modules

Introduction to Construction Contracts and Legal Frameworks
Principles of Contract Law in Construction
Roles and Responsibilities of Contracting Parties
Contract Formation and Standard Forms (FIDIC, JCT, NEC, etc.)
Key Contractual Terms and Risk Allocation
Contract Administration and Communication
Payment Terms, Variations, and Change Control
Delays, Extensions of Time, and Liquidated Damages
Defects, Completion, and Post-Completion Liabilities
Claims Management and Dispute Resolution
Insurance, Liabilities, and Warranties in Construction
Ethics, Professional Conduct, and Best Practices in Contract Management

Module Descriptions

Introduction to Construction Contracts and Legal Frameworks: Overview of the legal environment, necessity of contracts, and types of construction contracts.
Principles of Contract Law in Construction: Fundamentals of contract law, including offer, acceptance, consideration, and legal intent.
Roles and Responsibilities of Contracting Parties: Duties and obligations of clients, contractors, consultants, and subcontractors.
Contract Formation and Standard Forms (FIDIC, JCT, NEC, etc.): Process of contract formation, review of widely-used standard forms, and their key features.
Key Contractual Terms and Risk Allocation: Analysis of express and implied terms, allocation of risks, and tailoring contracts to suit project needs.
Contract Administration and Communication: Effective administration, record keeping, correspondence, and communication protocols.
Payment Terms, Variations, and Change Control: Managing payment processes, handling variations, and implementing change control procedures.
Delays, Extensions of Time, and Liquidated Damages: Understanding causes of delay, procedures for extensions, and calculation of damages.
Defects, Completion, and Post-Completion Liabilities: Managing practical completion, defects liability periods, and post-completion responsibilities.
Claims Management and Dispute Resolution: Identification, preparation, and management of claims; dispute avoidance and resolution methods.
Insurance, Liabilities, and Warranties in Construction: Types of insurance, managing liabilities, and understanding warranties and indemnities.
Ethics, Professional Conduct, and Best Practices in Contract Management: Upholding ethical standards, professional conduct, and continuous improvement in contract practice.