Expert advisory across the construction and real estate lifecycle

Acerton supports clients across the lifecycle of construction and development projects, from early-stage structuring through to project delivery. Early strategic input can play a critical role in ensuring projects are structured effectively, risks are understood and delivery objectives are clearly defined from the outset.

We advise developers, investors and contractors on procurement strategies, project structures and contractual frameworks, helping ensure that projects are set up for efficient delivery and aligned with commercial objectives. This includes advising on procurement routes, allocation of project risk and the interaction between key project stakeholders.

By combining strategic expertise with commercial insight, we support clients in navigating complex project environments, managing stakeholder relationships and making informed decisions at key stages of the project lifecycle.

We assist clients in drafting, reviewing and negotiating construction and consultancy documentation, ensuring contractual frameworks are aligned with project objectives, risk profiles and delivery strategies. Our experience includes advising on the JCT and NEC suites of contracts, consultant appointments, collateral warranties and bespoke contractual arrangements across complex development projects.

Our advice addresses key commercial mechanisms within construction contracts, including payment regimes, programme obligations, change control procedures and risk allocation between project participants. By ensuring these mechanisms are clearly structured and commercially balanced, we help clients reduce uncertainty and avoid disputes during project delivery.

Through clear and commercially focused advice, Acerton supports clients in structuring contractual arrangements that manage risk effectively, protect commercial interests and maintain productive working relationships across the project team.

The regulatory environment for construction and real estate development is evolving rapidly. Acerton provides guidance on regulatory frameworks affecting construction and development projects, including building safety compliance and broader regulatory risk.

We advise clients on navigating regulatory obligations, managing compliance requirements and understanding how new regulations may impact project delivery and risk exposure. Our experience includes advising on the gateway regime for higher-risk buildings, including Gateway 2 applications, and supporting clients in navigating the dutyholder regime under the Building Safety Act 2022.

Early and effective engagement with the regulatory framework is critical. Delays or deficiencies in regulatory submissions can lead to significant programme disruption, additional costs and project uncertainty. Acerton helps clients navigate regulatory requirements efficiently and minimise the risk of delays to project delivery.

Construction disputes are an inherent risk on complex projects. Acerton provides clear, strategic advisory support to clients facing contentious issues — from early-stage risk identification and claims management through to formal dispute resolution proceedings, including adjudication.

We advise on contractual rights and obligations, helping clients understand their position and develop an effective strategy whether they are pursuing or defending a claim. Our experience includes advising on payment disputes, delay and disruption claims, scope change disputes and defects across a range of standard form and bespoke contracts.

Adjudication is the primary dispute resolution mechanism in the UK construction industry. We have experience advising on and conducting adjudications — including drafting referral notices, responses and rejoinders — and support clients through the full process, from assessing the merits of a dispute through to enforcement of the decision.

Where disputes can be resolved without formal proceedings, we provide pragmatic commercial advice aimed at achieving efficient resolution, preserving key project relationships and protecting our clients' interests.

Acerton provides strategic advisory support to clients exploring development and investment opportunities within the built environment. This includes assisting clients in identifying potential opportunities, assessing development viability and considering appropriate delivery strategies.

By combining sector insight with experience across construction and development projects, Acerton helps clients evaluate opportunities, structure projects effectively and navigate early-stage considerations before significant capital is committed.

Where appropriate, we can also assist in facilitating introductions and supporting early-stage discussions between project stakeholders, investors and development partners.