Construction and Building Disputes

Construction and Building Disputes Solicitors

Construction and building disputes can be immensely stressful, disruptive, and costly—whether you are a homeowner unhappy with a builder’s poor workmanship, a subcontractor who hasn’t been paid, or a developer facing delays on a high-value project. Disputes in this sector are often complex and emotionally charged, especially when deadlines, relationships, and significant investments are all on the line.

At The Jonathan Lea Network, we provide clear, pragmatic legal advice to help resolve construction and building conflicts quickly, fairly, and as cost-effectively as possible. From pre-action guidance and contract analysis to negotiation, adjudication, and formal court proceedings, our experienced team is here to guide you from start to finish with confidence and care.

What Are Common Causes of Construction Disputes?

Construction projects typically involve many moving parts—tight timeframes, technical specifications, and multiple parties with differing priorities. Disputes can arise even on relatively small jobs and escalate quickly if not properly handled.

We regularly assist clients across the UK in resolving disputes involving:

• Non-payment or withheld payments
  These disputes often arise when work is perceived as incomplete or unsatisfactory. We help clients navigate payment applications, enforce payment notices, and recover money owed through adjudication or court claims.
  
• Defective or substandard work
  From structural defects and water ingress to cosmetic flaws and non-compliance with Building Regulations, we help assess liability and secure appropriate remedies, including repair or financial compensation.
  
• Delays in completion
  Construction delays can be costly and frustrating. Whether caused by supply chain issues, poor project management, or contractual breaches, we help determine liability and seek damages or extensions of time.
  
• Disputes over variations and scope
  Arguments about whether certain work was agreed, necessary, or outside the original contract are common. We help clarify contractual entitlements and assess whether you are liable to pay (or entitled to be paid) for disputed changes.
  
• Abandonment or incomplete work
  If a contractor walks off-site or leaves a job half-finished, we advise on recovery strategies, enforcement action, and securing new contractors to complete the work properly.
  
• Negligence of professionals
  We bring and defend professional negligence claims against architects, engineers, surveyors, or project managers who fail to meet their obligations or cause loss through poor advice or oversight.
  
• Issues with materials
  Where substandard or inappropriate materials are used, we help determine who is responsible and whether a claim exists under contract, tort, or statutory consumer protections.
  
• Contractual disputes
  We work with both standard form contracts (such as JCT and NEC) and bespoke agreements, identifying key clauses, breaches, and potential defences to support your legal position. 

Who We Act For

Our clients range from private homeowners and leaseholders to property developers, main contractors, sub-contractors, suppliers, and professional consultants. Whether you are engaged in a small residential renovation or a large-scale commercial development, our team has the experience to support you.

Our Approach: Collaborative, Strategic, and Cost-Conscious

We understand that no two disputes are alike. That’s why we begin with a thorough assessment of your legal position and practical goals before recommending a tailored course of action.

Whenever possible, we aim to resolve disputes through constructive negotiation and collaboration. Escalating to formal proceedings is a last resort, not a starting point.

Where appropriate, we guide clients through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), including:

• Mediation
  A voluntary and confidential process led by an independent mediator. Mediation is often faster and more cost-effective than litigation, and allows parties to preserve working relationships wherever possible.
  
• Adjudication
  Especially common in construction disputes under the Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996, adjudication offers a fast-track process for resolving payment and performance issues, often within 28 days.
  
• Arbitration
  A formal, private dispute resolution process with binding outcomes. Arbitration is suitable for complex, high-value disputes and often features in commercial construction contracts. 

If litigation becomes necessary, we have the expertise to pursue or defend claims in the Technology and Construction Court (TCC) and other relevant forums, always with an eye on efficiency and outcomes.

Building a Strong Legal Case

Should your matter proceed to adjudication, arbitration, or litigation, our team will develop a robust case strategy based on the facts, the law, and the commercial realities of your situation. This includes:

• In-depth contract review
  We analyse key contract documents, amendments, and correspondence to identify entitlements, obligations, and breaches.
  
• Gathering persuasive evidence
  Including site diaries, photos, emails, variations, invoices, project timelines, and witness statements.
  
• Working with construction experts
  We regularly instruct independent structural engineers, quantity surveyors, and other professionals to support or refute claims. 

Our goal is always to present a compelling and well-evidenced case that gives you the best possible chance of success.

No Written Contract? You Still Have Rights.

While written contracts are strongly recommended, many construction arrangements are informal or agreed verbally. That does not mean you are without legal protection. We can assess your situation in the context of:

• Verbal agreements
  Where terms have been agreed orally and acted upon, the courts can still enforce these contracts, provided there is sufficient evidence.
  
• Implied contractual terms
  Based on the parties’ conduct, previous dealings, or industry norms.
  
• Statutory protections
  For example, the Consumer Rights Act 2015, which provides implied terms for services, including that work must be performed with reasonable care and skill. 

We help clarify where you stand, what remedies may be available, and how best to proceed.

Clear Pricing, Focused on Value

We know that legal costs are a major concern in construction disputes. That’s why we are committed to cost transparency and client-focused pricing:

• Fixed fee or stage-based quotes
  Wherever possible, we offer fixed fees for initial advice or dispute analysis, and clear estimates for each phase of work.
  
• Realistic cost-benefit assessments
  We always give honest advice on whether pursuing a claim is worth it from a commercial point of view.
  
• Legal expenses insurance
  If cover is available through your home, business, or construction policy, we can liaise with your insurer and help secure funding. 

We work efficiently and pragmatically, focusing on delivering results that protect your time, money, and peace of mind.

Why Instruct The Jonathan Lea Network?

We offer a responsive, expert, and approachable legal service that balances commercial acumen with clear communication. Clients choose us because we offer:

• Specialist knowledge of construction law
  Including experience with JCT, NEC, and bespoke contracts, as well as relevant legislation and case law.
  
• Commercially realistic advice
  We understand that outcomes matter more than legal theory, and we’ll help you get the best possible result with minimal fuss.
  
• A collaborative, transparent service
  We work closely with you throughout, explaining your options and guiding you step-by-step—without jargon or surprises.
  
• Proven success across dispute forums
  Our team has resolved construction disputes through negotiation, mediation, adjudication, and litigation, including in the Technology and Construction Court. 

Speak to one of our Construction Dispute Solicitors Today

Whether your builder has downed tools halfway through a job or you’re a contractor chasing unpaid invoices, we can help. At The Jonathan Lea Network, we treat every case with the urgency, professionalism, and attention it deserves.

📞 Call us today on +44 (0)1444 708 640
📧 Email wewillhelp@jonathanlea.net
💬 Or complete our online enquiry form to request a no-obligation initial consultation.

Let us help resolve your dispute, protect your investment, and move your project forward with confidence.

Photo by Pawel Czerwinski on Unsplash