A gap has long existed between construction professionals (such as architects, engineers, quantity surveyors, mechanical and electrical engineers, environmental consultants and others) and the property development process. The underlying development structures, expressed in terms of legal obligation and accountability, are all too little understood.

This practical guide by a highly experienced lawyer identifies the role of the professional in its wider context, and looks beyond their relationship with their immediate employer. This encourages them to appreciate the concerns and interests of people such a joint venture partners, bankers, funders, landowners with an interest is the outcome, and tenants. The development professional needs to understand the pattern or web of relationships between a variety of principals, both in terms of contractual obligation and duty of care.