DICTIONARY OF CONSTRUCTION TERMS
In the fast-paced world of construction, where thousands of terms and acronyms can leave even seasoned professionals bewildered, having a reliable dictionary at your fingertips is necessary. This comprehensive guide, crafted by industry experts Simon Tolson, Jeremy Glover, and Stacy Sinclair, transcends the conventional boundaries of building dictionaries. Whether you're a seasoned building professional, lawyer, student, or an adjudicator navigating the complex landscape of construction law, this dictionary is your compass through the fog of terminology.
Simon Says
The roots of this dictionary trace back to 1994 when Simon
Tolson began compiling a construction database on his Psion Organiser. What
started as a personal endeavor to capture the essence of construction and
engineering terms evolved into a comprehensive repository named "Simon
Says." This database became the bedrock of knowledge for Fenwick Elliott
LLP, finding its way into the firm's intranet as technology advanced.
As the construction industry embraced powerful computing
systems, the need for a specialized dictionary became evident. "Simon
Says" expanded exponentially, covering not only common terms but also
delving into the esoteric facets of construction law. The result is a
meticulously curated dictionary that encapsulates the intricate tapestry of
construction, from spandrel panels and chequerplate to legal principles like
nemo dat quod non habet and the rule in Pinnel’s case.
The Joint Venture
The collaboration of Jeremy Glover, Stacy Sinclair, and
Simon Tolson brought forth a unique blend of expertise to this dictionary.
Jeremy's profound knowledge of FIDIC forms and adjudication law, Stacy's
insights into design, architecture, and emerging technologies like AutoCAD and
BIM, combined with Simon's cross-disciplinary contributions, created a resource
that transcends traditional building dictionaries.
The authors identified a gap in existing dictionaries, which
often fell short in addressing the intersection of construction and specialized
law. Their collective vision birthed an indispensable resource that bridges
this gap, catering to the nuanced needs of professionals navigating the
complexities of construction law.
About the Authors
Simon Tolson, Senior Partner:
A luminary in construction law, Simon Tolson's journey spans
decades, marked by specialization in construction law and dispute resolution.
From his early days as a building laborer to his current role as a senior
partner at Fenwick Elliott LLP, Simon brings a hands-on perspective to this
dictionary.
Jeremy Glover, Partner:
Jeremy Glover's expertise encompasses advising on all
aspects of construction projects globally. His contributions to understanding
the FIDIC Red Book and Building Contract Disputes have established him as a key
figure in the field. Jeremy's role as a lecturer and involvement in the Centre
of Construction Law at King’s College, London, reflects his commitment to
knowledge dissemination.
Stacy Sinclair, Assistant Solicitor:
With a background in architecture and engineering, Stacy
Sinclair's dual expertise positions her uniquely in the construction and
engineering legal landscape. Her insights into BIM and regular contributions to
reputable publications showcase her dedication to staying at the forefront of
industry advancements.
Abbreviations
Navigating the alphabet soup of construction acronyms is a
daunting task. This dictionary unravels the mystery with an exhaustive list of
abbreviations, providing clarity on everything from A&E (Architect and
Engineer) to VAT (Value Added Tax).
Illustrations:
Stacy Sinclair's artistic flair shines through the excellent
illustrations accompanying the entries. These visuals add a layer of
comprehension, making even the most complex concepts accessible. From schematic
representations to detailed diagrams, the illustrations enrich the reader's
understanding.
The Long Road to Publication
The journey from the Psion Organiser to a comprehensive
dictionary has not been without its challenges. The authors acknowledge the
constraints of fee-earning responsibilities and the prolonged timeline.
However, the dedication to delivering a balanced and informative resource has
been unwavering.
For the Reader:
Crafted with the reader in mind, this dictionary aims to
strike the right balance between comprehensive coverage and ease of use.
Whether you're on-site, working late at your desk, or in the midst of a legal
battle, this resource is designed to be your go-to companion.
Authors
Simon Tolson:
A senior partner and practitioner at Fenwick Elliott LLP,
Simon Tolson's accolades include being the Chairman of the Technology &
Construction Solicitors Association and a Chartered Arbitrator. His extensive
experience in construction law and dispute resolution, coupled with a
background as a building laborer, adds a unique perspective to his
contributions.
Jeremy Glover:
As a partner at Fenwick Elliott LLP, Jeremy Glover's
advisory role spans the entire project lifecycle. His co-authorship of
"Understanding the FIDIC Red Book" and lead editorship of
"Building Contract Disputes: Practice and Precedents" showcase his
commitment to disseminating knowledge. Jeremy's teaching roles at King’s
College, London, underscore his dedication to education in construction law.
Stacy Sinclair:
An Assistant Solicitor with a background in architecture,
Stacy Sinclair's diverse skill set positions her at the intersection of
construction and engineering issues. From designing large-scale projects to
contributing to publications like Building Magazine and the RIBA Journal, Stacy
brings a holistic understanding to her role as an industry professional and
lecturer.