Building information modelling: the UK legal context

The purpose of this paper is to identify some of the legal problems posed by full adoption of building information modelling (BIM) for construction design, and to propose a potential procurement solution for implementation in the UK.

Legal problems associated with BIM implementation are identified from a literature review, which is then drawn on to outline a potential best practice model for BIM procurement. Two US BIM procurement initiatives – American Institute of Architects (AIA) Document E202 and ConsensusDOCS 301 – are then analysed in relation to their fit with the model for BIM procurement in the UK market.

Drawing on lessons learned from the AIA and ConsensusDOCS initiatives, the paper concludes that collaborative procurement, perhaps by way of partnering, appears to be an appropriate model for BIM procurement in the UK. However, it notes that empirical research is required in order to identify precisely the best legal approach.

The paper is a scoping work, identifying the ground which needs to be explored before firm conclusions can be drawn.

The legal aspects of BIM procurement remain a relatively unexplored field, and this analysis instructively draws together many of the key threads.