03 November 2011
New Scottish contracts have just been launched by SBCC (Scottish Building Contract Committee) to incorporate the changes to the Construction Act from 1 November in Scotland.
Ann O’Connell, Partner & Accredited Specialist in Construction law at bto solicitors, sits on the drafting committee of the SBCC and performed the prestigious role of preparing the SBCC 2005 suite of contracts, through the 2009 revision and worked on the SBCC 2011 versions. This experience complements her team’s wide knowledge base on building contracts and consultant appointments.
Ann, who heads bto’s Construction team, has both contentious and non-contentious construction skills and is regarded by Chambers UK as a leading individual in the field of construction law. She is also considered by clients to be "very thorough and extremely helpful."
In the latest edition of The Legal 500, bto’s construction team has been successful in climbing a tier having joined the rankings in 2010. The team has also secured a first time ranking in the 2012 edition of Chambers UK with clients appreciating its “excellent level of service and legal advice.”
Another highlight for the team was its involvement in preparing and trialling the SBCC’s new, affordable, ‘off the shelf’ Homeowner contract, designed to protect homeowners, who are having an extension or other building work carried out, from ‘cowboy’ builders.
The team also assisted Trowers & Hamlins in the adaptation of standard form contracts for use in Scotland. This input led to bto hosting the recent launch by ConstructionSkills Scotland, and attended by members of the Scottish Government, of updated guidance highlighting how the National Skills Academy for Construction (NSAfC) ‘Client-based Approach’ can harness the power of public procurement to address industry skills needs. [To view a video taken at the event, please click here].
In addition, Ann and team Associate Jilly Petrie have recently launched bto’s Construction Forum series which to date has explored 'Payment in Construction Contracts' and ‘Changes to the Construction Act’. These events provide bto’s clients with the opportunity to meet like minded people and discuss matters of mutual interest.
bto’s Construction team handles a significant volume of work involving insurance, insolvency and renewable energy aspects. Ann is a key partner advising Triodos Bank on the construction aspects of its lending for renewable energy projects in Scotland. The team has recently acted for a number of major insurers on issues arising from property damage and defective design and workmanship.
Ann O’Connell said: “I am delighted that bto is making its mark in the Construction sector and that clients value the level of partner-level contact they receive at bto.”