Buildings

Clients have access to highly experienced consultants that have a track record of investigating and resolving claims and disputes

As well as highly experienced in investigating and resolving claims and disputes on building projects, HKA expert teams are able to draw on technical knowledge in every aspect of construction.

Especially in the case of complex buildings, construction is being transformed and challenged by new technologies. Building Information Modelling (BIM) and offsite manufacturing are modernising the industry and can improve collaboration, productivity, quality control, and building management. However, intelligent buildings, new materials, and more sustainable and advanced mechanical, electrical and plumbing services are also introducing further complexity and risks for contractors. This is compounded in many regions where the industry operates on fine margins – squeezed by rising input costs and flat tender prices, while struggling with skills shortages.

Our work and research reveals the heavy toll that claims and disputes exact on building projects. For our CRUX 2020 Insight report, we analysed 434 building projects across 37 countries with a combined capital value of $200 billion. The average claimed value of the disputes we investigated was nearly $73 million, and the extensions of time claimed would typically add more than 77% to these building projects’ original scheduled programme.

This analysis, and our hands-on experience, teaches not only what goes wrong on building projects, but also the underlying causes and how they can be avoided or mitigated. A troubling trend over recent years is the rise of design-related problems. These often stem from poor coordination of the inputs from multiple parties, rather than deficiencies in the design work itself.

HKA helps clients navigate these risks, the complexities of contracting, and the rapidly evolving technological and digital landscape. Our teams have advised governments in the UK and Mexico and state agencies on BIM strategies. We also harness digital modelling to powerful effect in risk analysis and the investigation and resolution of contractual disputes.

We have supported clients involved in the world’s most iconic structures, including landmark buildings such as the Burj Khalifa in Dubai and the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur, or Marina Bay Sands in Singapore and London’s St Pancras Renaissance Hotel.

Our experience spans the full spectrum of building projects, including:

• commercial offices
• education (schools, colleges and universities)
• government buildings (including military buildings, embassies, consulates, prisons, law courts and police stations)
• healthcare facilities
• hotels and resorts
• public sector buildings (including museums, libraries, and parks)
• real estate (housing, land, and mixed-use developments; urban regeneration, renewal and revitalisation)
• retail complexes
• places of worship
• sports and leisure facilities