To facilitate smooth running of construction projects, construction professionals need to be aware of their rights, obligations and liabilities when they enter into contractual relations either as individuals or on behalf of their employers. This course provides knowledge in construction law, risk and contracts that necessary for construction practitioners to be able to protect themselves, their employers and the works in executing the construction projects.

On completion of this course, students would be able to:

• Explain the rights and duties of project stakeholders or participants.
• Comprehend legal aspects of construction projects.
• Develop and administer a sound and effective contract as well as manage the contract.

None

I.      Introduction to Law & Legal Systems & Principle of Contract Formation

1. Introduction to Law
2. Legal Systems
3. The Importance of Law
4. Courts: The Judicial System
5. The Litigation Process
6. Contract Formation
7. Breach of Contract and Damages
8. Contractual Relationship on the Construction Project

 II.    Construction Contracts

1. Project Procurement and Payment Methods
2. Contractual Risk Management
3. Standard form of Contract: FIDIC
4. Risks, Insurance and bonds
   

III.    Contract Administration

1. Progress Measurement and Payment
2. Change Management
3. Contract Claims
4. Contract Closeout
   

None.

No designated textbook. Class notes and handouts will be provided.

1. Jervis, B.M. and Levin, P. (1988): Construction Law   Principles and Practice, New York: McGraw-Hill Publishing Company.
2. Wood, D., Chynoweth, P., Adshead, J., and Mason, J. (2011): Law and the Built Environment, 2^nd Ed., Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.
3. Uff, J. (2009): Construction Law, 10^th Ed. London: Sweet and Maxwell.
4. Goodwin, P. and Wright, G. (2014): Decision Analysis for Management Judgment, 5^th Ed., Chichester: Wiley.
5. Cook, C.W. (2014): Successful Contract Administration: For Constructors and Design Professionals, London: Routledge.
6. FIDIC (1999): The FIDIC Conditions of Contracts, 1999 Versions.

1. International Journal of Law in Built Environment, Emerald.
2. Journal of Legal Affairs and Dispute Resolution in Engineering and Construction, ASCE.
3. Building and Construction Law, Thomson Reuters.

Lectures:                 45 hours

Self-study:             125 hours

Case Studies:         10 hours

Mass Instruction: Lectures, Class room exercises and presentations

Individualized Learning: Individual home assignments at the end of each class.

Group Learning: Group home assignments at the end of each class to practice, Case Studies to enhance the practical problem-solving skills.

Case Study & Home Assignment:     20%

Mid-Exam (Open Book):                   30%

Final Exam (Open Book):                 50%

“A” will be awarded if a student can demonstrate clear understanding of the topics learned in class, has integrated knowledge of the course, can apply the knowledge appropriately in the project/case study, and actively contribute in class discussion.

“B” will be awarded if a student can demonstrate basic understanding of the topics learned in class, can apply the knowledge in the project/case study, and contribute in class discussion.

“C” will be given if a student can demonstrate partial understanding of the topics learned in class, can apply the knowledge in the project/case study, and quiet during class discussion.

“D” will be given if a student demonstrates lack of understanding of the topics learned in class, cannot apply the knowledge appropriately in the project/case study, and cannot contribute in class discussion.