The use of consultants is prevalent in the construction industry and their advice is often relied upon without hesitation. However, it is not always clear what exactly we expect from professional advisers and what claims can be made against them if they fail in their duties. A recent case has shed some light.

Contractors or employers seek the advice of specialists such as engineers and architects on the basis that they will have superior technical knowledge and understanding of certain aspects of the construction work. Consequently, parties rely wholeheartedly on their consultants’ advice and it can be problematic when defects are later uncovered and disputes over liability arise.

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