Building Information Modelling (BIM) - Are you ready?

13-Dec-2011

There will be no escaping Building Information Modelling(BIM) over the next few years. The Government recently announced that it will invest millions in a phased roll-out of BIM and the process will become mandatory on all public sector projects by 2016. BIM enables a fully collaborative approach to the design of a building project. The anticipated benefits include: improved design, elimination of errors, shorter construction times and so reduced costs.

 

However, are you ready for BIM? You may be already considering the necessary computer hardware and software upgrades, as well as the restructuring and staff training required. But have you considered the legal and contractual issues that BIM will raise?

 

Our specialist construction legal teamcan provide construction advice along with the intellectual property advice which BIM raises. We are well placed to advise you on contractual matters such as:

• Liability for information – When does liability arise/cease? Who is responsible for errors in the model?
• Insurance – Do existing insurance policies work in the context of a BIM project?
• Contracts/Appointments – Are existing contractual terms compatible with BIM? To what extent will project and program information need to be amended?
• Copyright and ownership in computer generated works.
• Copyright ownership, protection and licensing in the BIM project.
• Protection of intellectual property in the collaborative environment.
• Strategy for dealing with joint authorship and contributions to the project.

 

For further information and legal advice regarding BIM contact:
Simon Franklin, Construction Solicitor
Rudi Kidd, Intellectual Property Consultant

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