Introduction to Construction Contracts

Join us for an evening on construction contracts: why you need them, how to manage them and what not to do!

About the Event

Join us for a practical and accessible introduction to construction contracts. This session will give you a clear understanding of how contracts operate in practice and how to use them more effectively to manage risk and avoid disputes.

The session will begin with a presentation by specialist construction solicitor Brenna Baye of Edwin Coe. She'll explain why having a written construction contract is essential. You'll how clear terms reduce uncertainty, allocate risk, and prevent costly misunderstandings on projects. It will then explore why the Joint Contracts Tribunal updated its standard forms, giving you insight into the industry pressures, legal developments, and practical challenges that have driven recent changes.

You will also be guided through the key updates introduced in the 2024 JCT contracts, enabling you to quickly grasp what has changed and how those changes may affect your day-to-day project roles and responsibilities. The session will then address whether parties should amend standard form contracts, equipping you with a better understanding of when amendments add value, when they create risk, and how they can impact project outcomes.

The event will conclude with a panel discussion focused on lessons learned from real projects. The panel will be chaired by NAWIC committee member Annie Clift, who will be joined by Brenna, construction solicitor Tegan Johnson and contracts manager Chloe Xidas. They'll offer practical insights including:

📝 Managing your contract throughout the project

🤦‍♀️ Common mistakes and how to avoid them

🤝 How disputes arise and how to resolve them

The format includes a 40-minute presentation followed by an interactive panel discussion, with an opportunity for audience questions. This will be a valuable session for construction professionals, project managers, surveyors, lawyers, and anyone involved in construction projects.

This event is open to all – whether you work in construction, design, law, planning, or simply have a personal interest in construction contracts.

Hosted by NAWIC London and generously sponsored by Edwin Coe, it’s the perfect opportunity to expand your knowledge, ask questions, and connect with professionals across disciplines.

This event is free to NAWIC members and membership is currently free.

You can find out more about NAWIC membership here: www.nawic.co.uk

By registering for this event, you are also agreeing to our event terms, which you can find here.