‘Building Defects Law’ – a new book by Darryl Royce

‘Building Defects Law’, a new book authored by Atkin Chambers’ Darryl Royce, is due to be published by London Publishing Partnership at the end of May 2026.

As the Grenfell disaster demonstrated, the results of building defects can be catastrophic. While the civil law provides a range of potential remedies to those affected by the consequences of defects – whether they are those who paid for the work, those who occupy the premises or those who have to pay for remedial work – the availability of those remedies very much depends on the particular circumstances in which the work was carried out. This book takes the reader through the duties and remedies available, explaining where they are applicable and the potential difficulties involved. A particular feature is explanation of why the law has reached its current position, which can sometimes seem perplexing at first sight. The effect of recent statutory reform is covered in detail, and all the leading cases are considered.

By tracing the development of the law, particularly statutory intervention, the author shows that difficult issues remain to be resolved, particularly in relation to limitation and to the existence and nature of any concurrent duty owed by contractors as opposed to construction professionals. In addition, he takes the view that it is by no means clear that some of the concerns expressed by the Grenfell Inquiry will be laid to rest by the reforms that are in the process of being introduced under the provisions of the Building Safety Act 2022.

The book provides a reliable and helpful guide to all those involved with such claims, particularly in relation to practical considerations such as expert evidence and the respective merits of the various available dispute-resolution procedures.

Lord Justice Coulson says:

“This is an excellent book: clearly written and comprehensive. I enjoyed it all, but certain chapters were particularly impressive. The introductory chapter, which gives a masterly overview of the changing face of defects claims in the last 50 years, should be recommended reading for anyone thinking of practicing in this area of law. Chapter 4 on ‘Warranties’ highlights the unsung importance of warranties in the construction context, while Chapter 7 on ‘Claims Under the Building Safety Act’ will be of enormous assistance to everyone as they learn to navigate their way round this long and complex piece of legislation. And then, in Chapter 9 on ‘Insurance Claims’, there is an invaluable dissection of the different insurance arrangements that can come into play when defects are discovered. Every construction lawyer – without exception – will need to buy a copy.”

Building Law Defects can be pre-ordered via this link.