Undergraduate - UnitLAW4190 - Construction law

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit will allow students to acquire knowledge and understanding of a specialist, and increasingly important, area of law. The unit begins with a critical analysis of the different types of contracts and project delivery methods. Students explore the problem areas which can lead to conflict during the course of construction projects including resultant legal ramifications and insurance issues. Students analyse the traditional and alternative ways of resolving construction disputes. Students will examine the relevant legislations and learn to research and write on construction law issues.

Outcomes

A candidate who has successfully completed this unit should:

1. be familiar with the different types of contracts used on construction projects and the pros and cons of each;
2. be able to identify the issues that impact on construction projects such as variations, latent defects, delays and defective works and the legal ramifications of each;
3. understand the broad range of dispute avoidance and management options available and their relationship to judicial and arbitral processes;
4. recognise the different types of insurance required for construction projects and be able to critically assess the contractual provisions relevant to them;
5. have knowledge of the various statutes and regulations governing the construction industry; and
6. be able to write clearly, concisely and logically on issues relating to construction law.

Assessment

1,500 site visit report - 30% and examination (2 and a half hours writing time plus 30 minutes reading and noting time):70%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Paula Gerber

Contact hours

Three hours of lectures per week

Prerequisites

LAW1100 or LAW1101 and LAW1102 or LAW1104

Co-requisites

LAW2100 or LAW2101 and LAW2102; LAW2200 or LAW2201 and LAW2202