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Construction projects involve significant creative and technical input from architects, engineers and designers (hereinafter referred to as proprietors). Once a client has paid for construction drawings and designs, one important question arises: may the client freely reproduce, reuse, or demand specific formats of those designs? This question is often answered with reference to the Copyright […]
The global construction industry is susceptible to disruptions in the supply chain and price volatility. Recent geopolitical tensions and armed conflict in the Middle East have raised concerns about disruptions to global trade routes, energy supplies, and the availability of materials. For contractors, developers, and project owners, geopolitical conflicts highlight the growing importance of carefully […]
Cox Yeats has been honoured in the 17th edition of the Best Lawyers in South Africa, with lawyers from across its national offices recognised for their outstanding expertise. This achievement highlights the firm’s depth of specialist expertise and its ongoing commitment to delivering high-calibre legal counsel across key practice areas. It also underscores the professional […]
The GCC 2025 is the first major overhaul of the General Conditions of Contract for Construction in ten years, introducing clearer terminology, modernised processes, and a stronger emphasis on collaboration. The updates aim to reduce ambiguity, support proactive project management, and align the contract with contemporary industry standards. The new edition clarifies key definitions, tightens […]
Projects often run into delays. A common question that arises is whether consultants/professionals can claim additional fees due to the period of delay. Often, consultants agree to a value-based fee, meaning that the amounts they can charge are linked to the overall value of the work. In circumstances of delay, consultants often feel that they […]
Peter Barnard, Claudelle Pretorius, and Chantal Mitchell have co-authored the South Africa chapter in the latest edition of the International Comparative Legal Guide – Construction & Engineering Law 2025. The guide provides a comparative analysis of construction and engineering laws across multiple jurisdictions, with the South African chapter offering insight into: The standard forms of […]
Set Square Developments (Pty) Ltd v Power Guarantees (Pty) Ltd and Another and a related matter (099/2023 and 150/24) [2025] ZASCA 64 (20 May 2025) An unfortunate recurring theme in construction industry news is that of contractors/subcontractors being placed in business rescue or liquidation. To safeguard against the associated financial risks and minimise potential financial […]
Cox Yeats has once again solidified its position as one of South Africa’s leading law firms with notable rankings in the 2025 edition of Legal 500, a globally respected guide to the legal profession. Shipping & Transport Practice Recognised for Excellence The firm’s Shipping and Transport team has been lauded for its cohesive and highly […]
On 17 January 2025, the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) handed down judgment in Kidrogen RF (Pty) Ltd v Erasmus & Others (815/2023) [2025] ZASCA. The case involved a shareholding dispute between Kidrogen RF (Pty) Ltd (Kidrogen) and two shareholders, Mr Erasmus and Mr Ncube. Kidrogen concluded Share Sale Agreements (the agreements) with Mr Erasmus […]
A recent SCA ruling confirms that contractors who enter government contracts exceeding budgeted amounts are still entitled to payment for work done, even if the contract is deemed invalid. On 27 December 2024, the Supreme Court of Appeal (the SCA) handed down a decision in Zeal Health Innovations (Pty) Ltd v Minister of Defence and […]
