PROFESSIONAL NEGLIGENCE IN BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING (BIM)

Abstract

The construction industry continues to be plagued by inefficiency and redundancy due its fragmented structure and its use of the “2D based” process, resulting in low level of integration between the different disciplines. BIM involves the process of using a single 3D model to fully integrate and coordinate all the different design, and subsequently using it to produce schedules, elements description, quantities and etc. This will present enormous gains in cost and time savings, much greater accuracy in estimation, and the avoidance of error, alterations and rework due to information loss. However, as BIM is a relatively new technology, there appears to be a lack of clear establishment of the appropriate standard of care required by the professionals parties involved. This will results in gaps when trying to identifying negligence from the required standard of care required of a construction professional. This research aims to explore the potential areas of dispute arising from the required standard of care by the construction professionals within a BIM environment. Firstly, this dissertation will study on the contractual responsibilities of the construction professional in two of the most commonly used forms of contract in Singapore, as well as the role of the BIM Particulars Conditions in shaping the proposed amendments to the two standard forms. Secondly, this dissertation will study on the common law approach governing the area of torts negligence by the construction professionals and the impact of BIM on these established principles.