Octoesse LLP v Trak Special Projects Ltd
The case of Octoesse LLP v Trak Special Projects Ltd. [2016] set an important precedent in ensuring the correct contractual procedures are adhered to when deducting liquidated damages.
Octoesse LLP (the claimant) entered into an amended JCT Intermediate Building Contract with Trak Special Projects Ltd. (the defendant) for the construction of residential units. Practical completion was significantly later than the original completion date, and the defendant submitted a claim for an 18-week extension of time. They were awarded 9.5 weeks by the contract administrator. No further certificate of non completion was issued.
When the defendant issued a final certificate for payment, the claimant issued a pay less notice which deducted liquidated damages. An adjudication was begun by the defendant on the grounds that the pay less notice was invalid.
The case focused on the interpretation of clauses 2.22 and 2.23 which are constructed such that:
'If the Contractor fails to complete the Works or a Section by the relevant Completion Date, the Architect/Contract administrator shall issue a certificate to that effect. If an extension of time is made after the issue of such certificate, the extension shall cancel that certificate and the Architect/Contract Administrator shall where necessary issue a further certificate.'
The defendant argued that it was an express condition of the claimant’s entitlement to deduct liquidated damages that the contract administrator issued a certificate of non completion. Further, the effect of clause 2.22 was that when the extension of time had been given, it had cancelled the certificate of non completion.
Justice Jefford held that the claimant was not entitled to deduct liquidated damages as they had agreed to an extension of time after a certificate of non completion had been issued.
If, on the other hand, the claimant had given notice of their intention to deduct damages, but an extension of time had then been made and a further certificate of non completion issued, then they would not need to give notice of the intention to deduct again.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Net zero electricity grids BSRIA guide NZG 5/2024
Outlining the changes needed to transition to net zero.
CIOB Global Student Challenge 2024
Universitas Indonesia wins for second year running.
New project and cultural district described in detail.
The nature of EPCs, crticism and inaccuracies.
History, issues and redesign.
From waste recycling to energy performance the hierchy.
An introduction to WERCS and WEEE responsibilities
Dealing 2 million tonnes of waste equipment a year.
Global BACS Market: analytics and optimisation
A BSRIA glance at building automation and control systems.
What it is and how to use it.
Types of insulating plaster by binder and insulant.
Investors in People: CIOB achieves gold
Reflecting a commitment to employees and members.
Scratching beneath the surface; a guide to selection.
ECA 2024 Apprentice of the Year Award
Entries open for submission until May 31.
UK gov apprenticeship funding from April 2024
Brief summary the policy paper updated in March.
For the World Autism Awareness Month of April.