Time at Large Principle in Construction

This assignment explores the 'Time at Large' principle in construction law. It examines how contractual deadlines affect project completion, potential legal ramifications for delays (including cases like Multiplex Constructions (UK) Ltd v Honeywell Control Systems Ltd [2013] and Trollope & Colls Ltd v North West Metropolitan Regional Hospital Board [1973]), and the argument that the principle is outdated due to factors like additional works and contract variations. The author advocates for flexibility in construction contracts to account for unforeseen circumstances.

Running Head: TIME AT LARGE PRINCIPLE IN WORKS 1
Time at Large Principle In Works
(Name)
(Institutional Affiliation)

TIME AT LARGE PRINCIPLE IN WORKS 2
Time is a relevant subject in any industry, making delays in completing works costly and
may lead to legal liability for any damage as a result of the delay. This responsibility lies on the
party that was responsible for the delay. Multiplex Constructions (UK) Ltd v Honeywell Control
Systems Ltd [2013]
For instance, if a property developer does not finish his building project on time, it may
lead to damages such as loss of rent or a law suit from the prospective tenant as that is a breach
of contract. To avoid such occurrences, the contractor will have to ensure the property is finished
in time for the tenant to occupy it.
To ensure clarity, the following issues are outlined before a building project: The date to
begin the works, when the contractor fully possesses the site as well as the date by which it
should be completed. This binds the contractor legally such that failure to achieve what was
agreed upon will lead to legal consequences and the employer has the right to rescind the
contract and sue for damages. Trollope & Colls Ltd v North West Metropolitan Regional
Hospital Board [1973] 1 WLR 601
In some cases however, time limit may not be valuable in the event where some parts of
the contract contradict the time limit, example, if there was a provision allowing for extension of
time in the contract. The employer can only sue the contactor if there is delay in completion of
works before the specified time, not a delay in works. According to contractual law, the
contractor must begin work immediately he gets access to the site. Multiplex Constructions (UK)
Ltd v Honeywell Control Systems Ltd [2013]

TIME AT LARGE PRINCIPLE IN WORKS 3
In my view, time at large principle is outdated because there may be other factors causing
delays such as additional works and variations. It is unrealistic to expect the contractor to finish
the job at the stipulated time if more work is added. It is therefore necessary to allow flexibility
in works.

TIME AT LARGE PRINCIPLE IN WORKS 4
References
Trollope & Colls Ltd v North West Metropolitan Regional Hospital Board [1973] 1 WLR 601,
Multiplex Constructions (UK) Ltd v Honeywell Control Systems Ltd [2013]