What Does a Construction Claims Consultant Do?

Construction projects don’t always go to plan, so sometimes you need the help of construction claims experts. Construction claims experts are typically hired to assist with contractual claims, payment problems and property disputes. This is because there are often complex and long-running contracts within the construction industry that deal with multiple parties and contractors - each with uniquely specific issues.

Construction claims experts usually have a background in quantity surveying. You might find construction claims consultants who are part of a multinational organisation or some who are sole practitioners of smaller enterprises.

What do they do?

Construction claims experts are the bridge between construction companies and specialist construction lawyers. This means you can save some money, especially where the consultant has been involved in non-contentious stages of a project. However, there might be a risk of overreaching legal matters as a consequence of trying or wanting to do the right thing but not knowing other legal options that might be more suitable.

Claims consultants can be involved in a variety of different construction-related phases and issues such as:

• The inception of a construction project involved the drafting of contractual documents
• Reviewing contract terms;
• Assisting with document management, the serving of notices and applications; and
• Advising on issues if/as/when they arise.



Are claims consultants legally qualified solicitors?

Construction claims consultants are not legally qualified solicitors so they are not regulated or insured. However, they can still be greatly beneficial for a range of construction claims while costing significantly less than solicitors. They can give you the property advice you need without costing a fortune.

Construction claims experts are much more effective the earlier they are brought in. If an issue has been identified such as a payment dispute; allegations of defective work or poor workmanship; variation disputes; or delays; or there have been issues with time or designs, they are more effective the earlier the issue is raised with the right claims expert.  Perhaps a payless notice needs to be served or a final account hasn’t been completed which can be used to your advantage. The sooner a construction claims expert can review and confirm the various options and nuances, the better they will be able to advise and take the necessary steps to create leverage and effectively deal with the issue.

If you are seeking a construction claims expert or construction expert witness, call Simon Levy today. We can provide you with the support you need for all types of property disputes.