Civil and building construction contracts are generally based around one of a number of industry standard forms of contract, tailored to meet particular circumstances. The construction industry is fertile ground for disputes, and a number of dispute resolution practices have been developed by the industry over the years. It is most important that participants within the industry, and people contracting with them, fully understand their respective rights and liabilities, and properly document them.
Sales and purchases which might seem simple can often have complex legal issues to be resolved, and potential liability to be dealt with. All substantial acquisitions should be thoroughly investigated, and documented. The time for legal input is prior to execution of a contract, not after it.
A successful development or subdivision is nearly always a good team effort, with contributions from a number of inputs. There is often a need for customised documentation to meet the requirements of a particular development. Teamwork and timing are essential to ensure an efficiently run project.
Finance arrangements for projects and property can often demand subtle legal input to ensure that parties interests are properly protected, and that the documentation meets the needs of the project.
Although there is an increasing tendency to use a few standard form documents as the base for leasing transactions, it would be a mistake to assume that leasing is a simple process. A lease transaction is typically one of the larger transactions that a business will enter into, and should be treated as such. Retail, commercial and industrial leases all have their own idiosyncrasies. Landlords and tenants should seek legal advice before entering into an agreement to lease, or deed of lease.
Resource management is the term used to describe the rules which govern the use and development of land, buildings, and natural resources such as the taking and disposal of water. It is governed by the Resource Management Act, pursuant to which many rules and plans have been created. Few property based transactions proceed without consideration of resource management matters. I have had significant experience in resource management matters, and have a network of specialist resource management consultants and barristers.