Construction Professional Negligence — Claiming Against Architects, Engineers & Surveyors

When an architect, structural engineer, project manager, or quantity surveyor makes a professional error on your project, the consequences can be devastating: cost overruns, delayed programmes, structural problems, planning refusals, or projects that cannot be completed as designed. I advise clients who have suffered losses because of negligent professional services in the construction sector, helping them bring claims against the professionals and their insurers to recover what they have lost. Professional negligence claims in construction require technical and legal expertise in equal measure. I work with independent experts — fellow professionals in the same discipline — who can produce a report setting out the standard of care expected, where the defendant fell below it, and what the causal connection is between the breach and your loss. That report is the foundation of any successful claim, and getting the right expert early on makes a significant difference to outcome. I manage that process and ensure the expert evidence aligns with the legal case I am building. Most construction professional negligence claims resolve through negotiation or mediation rather than trial, and the defendant's professional indemnity insurers are almost always involved. I have experience engaging with PI insurers, understanding their settlement appetite, and pushing for the right outcome without running up disproportionate costs. Where a claim cannot be settled, I can take it through TCC proceedings and have the experience to handle complex multi-party disputes where more than one professional contributed to the loss. How It Works 1. Loss assessment and causation review 2. Independent expert appointed and breach of duty report prepared 3. Pre-action protocol letter of claim to professional and insurers 4. Mediation or negotiated settlement with PI insurer 5. TCC proceedings if settlement not reached What You Get - Expert evidence coordination and breach of duty analysis - Letter of claim and pre-action correspondence - PI insurer negotiation - TCC litigation if required FAQ Q: How long do I have to bring a professional negligence claim? A: Six years from the date of the negligent act, or three years from the date of knowledge. For latent loss cases, the discoverability rules can extend this. Q: What if the professional firm has been dissolved? A: Professional indemnity insurance must be maintained for a run-off period after a firm closes. I can advise on tracing the relevant insurer. Q: Is mediation mandatory before court proceedings? A: Pre-action protocols encourage mediation and unreasonable refusal to engage can result in adverse cost consequences. I advise you on the right time to propose it.