Developments

From the first project idea to completion, real estate developments bring together many different legal, commercial and practical issues. We help structure the legal side of the project, put the right agreements in place and stay involved throughout implementation, so that legal questions do not become obstacles to progress.

Legal support throughout the development process.

  • Project Setup

    We help create the legal framework for a development from the outset. Depending on the project, this can include planning and building law matters, development and public law agreements, easements and access rights, as well as agreements with neighbouring property owners. The aim is simple: identify what the project needs early and put the necessary legal structures in place.

  • Planning & Construction Agreements

    We draft and negotiate the agreements needed to plan and build the project, from agreements with architects, engineers and other consultants to construction contracts and general contractor structures. We tailor the contractual setup to the project, the chosen procurement model and the way responsibilities and risks should be allocated.

  • Project Delivery & Ongoing Advice

    Once construction starts, we stay involved. We advise on variations and additional works, delays, payment and security issues, acceptance, defects and other questions that arise during delivery. When issues arise, we focus on practical solutions that protect your position without losing sight of the project itself.

Development advice for the people delivering the project.

  • Developers & Investors

    We advise developers and investors from the early planning stages through construction to completion. Our support can range from individual agreements and specific legal questions to ongoing advice throughout the entire development.

  • Owners & Asset Managers

    We support owners and asset managers with new builds, refurbishments and repositioning projects. We structure and negotiate the agreements with planners and contractors and advise on the legal issues that arise during implementation.

  • Tenants & Operators

    Tenants and operators turn a building into a space that works for their business. We advise on fit-outs and adaptations, from agreements with planners and contractors to the interfaces with the landlord and the lease.

Selected work

Related Case Studies

All case studies

Questions

What clients often ask us.

  • What types of development projects do you advise on?

    We advise on development projects across asset classes and at very different scales, from the construction or refurbishment of a single logistics or commercial property to complex mixed-use and urban developments involving multiple buildings, infrastructure and connections to public transport. What matters to us is not the type or size of the project, but understanding how it works and providing the legal support it needs.

  • Can you connect us with other professionals for our project?

    Yes. Over the years, we have built a strong network across the real estate industry, including architects and planners, agents, investors, general contractors and other specialists. Where useful, we are happy to make introductions and bring the right people together for your project.

  • How much does development advice cost?

    It depends on the project and the scope of our involvement. For clearly defined workstreams or agreements, we can often agree a fixed fee or budget upfront. For ongoing project advice, we usually charge by the hour and agree the scope and fee structure with you before we start.

  • Do you also advise when a project runs into problems?

    Yes. Delays, additional costs, variations, defects and disagreements are part of many development projects. We help assess the situation, protect your position and find practical solutions that keep the project moving wherever possible. And if a dispute cannot be avoided, we can take it from there.

Let’s talk about your development.

Whether you are planning a new development, refurbishing an existing property or already in the middle of construction, tell us what you are working on and we will see how we can help.