If a building contractor becomes insolvent, but the build is covered by an NHBC Buildmark warranty providing insolvency cover, when does time start to run for the insured to start proceedings against an insurer who fails to pay a claim?

The Technology and Construction Court (TCC) has recently considered this question in the context of an application for summary judgment made by the NHBC, in Peabody Trust v National House-Building Council [2024].

Recent high-profile contractor collapses have made many acutely aware of the need to ensure they are adequately protected in the event of employer or contractor insolvency. This increase in insolvencies has also placed significant stress on the construction bond market. Contractor insolvencies put pressure on surety bond providers, which in turn can lead to increased rates and more stringent criteria being imposed on contractors seeking bonds.

The First-tier Tribunal (FTT) has made what is understood to be the first Remediation Contribution Order under the Building Safety Act 2022 (BSA) in connection with the remediation of building safety defects at a high-rise residential block at 9 Sutton Court Road, in London.

In a recent opinion – In re Heritage Home Group LLC, et al., Case No. 18-11736 (KG), 2018 WL 4684802 (Bankr. D. Del. Sept. 27, 2018) – the Delaware Bankruptcy Court addressed the longstanding issue of which professional persons must be retained under section 327(a) of the Bankruptcy Code.

A fundamental tenet of chapter 11 bankruptcies is the absolute priority rule. Initially a judge-created doctrine, the absolute priority rule was partially codified in section 1129(b)(2)(B)(ii) of the Bankruptcy Code. Under section 1129, plans must be “fair and equitable” in order to be confirmed.

Background: Professionals’ Fees in Chapter 11 cases