Driver Trett Digest Issue 26 - Flipbook - Page 20
ENHANCED QUALITY CONTROL
Construction disputes often arise due to issues related
to quality control and workmanship. Modern methods
of construction, such as modular construction and
prefabrication, offer controlled factory environments for
manufacturing building components. These controlled
conditions ensure higher quality control, leading to
fewer defects and errors. By minimising the risk of poor
workmanship, MMC techniques reduce the likelihood of
disputes related to construction defects, delays, or noncompliance with specifications.
However, prefabrication introduces new challenges.
Damage during transportation and handling is a
common problem, especially with partially finished
modular units containing delicate components. Offsite construction requires precise measurements
and alignment of components. Any deviation from the
required dimensions can result in assembly difficulties,
poor fit, and compromised structural integrity.
Maintaining tight manufacturing tolerances and
constructing in situ elements with equal accuracy are
important considerations.
STREAMLINED PROJECT TIMELINES
Delays in project completion are a common source of
disputes in the construction industry. Modern methods
of construction, such as modular construction and
prefabrication, offer significant advantages in terms
of project timelines. Off-site manufacturing allows
for simultaneous construction activities, reducing
construction time and minimising the impact of
adverse weather conditions. By accelerating project
schedules, MMC techniques mitigate the risk of delays
and associated disputes, promoting smoother project
execution and client satisfaction.
This can increase the criticality of early stage works –
if, for example, off-site manufacture of modular units
requires certain substructures to be in place prior to
their arrival, any delays in their completion could lead
to unforeseen storage and transportation costs which
might not arise with traditional methods.
A further consideration is the impact that late changes
may have upon production processes. Alteration of
manufacturing lines can have significant implications on
cost and programme, which may have been possible to
resolve promptly with in situ construction. Ensuring the
design is finalised well before production commences is
critical.
CLEARER CONTRACTUAL ARRANGEMENTS
Construction disputes often stem from ambiguous or
poorly drafted contracts. However, modern construction
methods have encouraged a shift towards more detailed
and standardised contractual arrangements.
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With MMC techniques, contracts can include specific
provisions related to modular construction, 3D printing,
or prefabrication, addressing potential challenges
and clarifying responsibilities. Both NEC4 and FIDIC
contract suites have introduced and addressed BIM
protocols, as the adoption of BIM increases worldwide.
Clearer contractual arrangements minimise disputes
by establishing a mutual understanding of project
expectations, deliverables, and risk allocation.
However, these new techniques come with new
challenges that must be resolved. Methods like modular
construction often require substantial costs for the
contractor at an early stage of the project, which
needs careful consideration. Dealing with changes
can be challenging due to the lack of flexibility often
associated with MMC, and managing the supply chain
becomes crucial when timely delivery of components
and materials is critical. Untangling liability for defects
can also be complex, given the intricate contractual
frameworks underlying these elements.
COLLABORATION AND COMMUNICATION
Effective collaboration and communication are vital in
preventing and resolving construction disputes. MMC
promotes enhanced collaboration through the use of
digital technologies and platforms. BIM, for instance,
fosters communication among different project teams,
facilitating early identification and resolution of
conflicts. Furthermore, MMC techniques require close
coordination between designers, manufacturers, and
construction teams, encouraging proactive problemsolving and reducing the likelihood of disputes arising
from miscommunication or lack of coordination.
CONCLUSION
Modern methods of construction have ushered in a new
era for the construction industry, not only in terms of
efficiency, sustainability, and affordable construction
techniques, but also providing opportunities to
mitigate construction disputes. If integrated and
properly coordinated, through improved design and
planning, enhanced quality control, streamlined
project timelines, clearer contractual arrangements,
productive collaboration, and effective alternative
dispute resolution mechanisms, MMC techniques have
the potential to significantly reduce the risk of conflicts
arising during construction projects.
As the industry continues to embrace these innovative
methods, efficiencies in construction techniques will
continue to be realised – provided all stakeholders are
willing to work collaboratively and embrace change.
