The Construction Leadership Council COVID-19 Task Force has now issued practical guidance for all companies involved in the construction supply chain on how to minimise potential disputes.

This also includes standard letters for “without prejudice’ dialogue and notice of delays needed in JCT design and build and NEC contracts.

The guidance document also sets out issues likely to arise, along with advice on how to resolve them in a constructive manner.

It has been endorsed by the Government’s Cabinet Office which has itself issued a general statement calling on parties to contracts impacted by the COVID-19 emergency to act responsibly and fairly, and support national efforts to protect jobs and the economy.

Andy Mitchell, co-Chair of the Construction Leadership Council, said: “In the light of the pandemic, it is vital that we all work together to minimise potential disputes in order to secure the industry for the long-term.

“As such we have worked across industry to develop practical guidance for businesses, which complements the approach already set out by the public sector.

“We welcome the endorsement of our approach from the UK Government in its Guidance on responsible contractual behaviour in the performance and enhancement of contracts impacted by the Covid-19 emergency.

“This is a rapidly developing situation and we are continuously seeking feedback from industry on the challenges faced and the measures announced to date.

“We anticipate that all businesses will understand the unprecedented situation we find ourselves in and work collaboratively, thus avoiding the need for future legislation.”

For full Construction Leadership Council guidance click here.