Construction and Real Estate Law

Construction projects are complex legal relationships in which many parties undertake interdependent obligations over a long period. Under Turkish law, construction works are primarily governed by the provisions on contracts for work in the Turkish Code of Obligations No. 6098. Revenue-sharing (flat-for-land) construction agreements, subcontracts and public works are further shaped by their own rules and by case law. In international projects, standard forms such as FIDIC are widely used.

Many disputes stem from the allocation of risk agreed at the outset, when the contract is drafted. It is therefore important to define the scope of works, the programme, payment and price adjustment mechanisms and the notice periods for extension of time and additional payment claims clearly. Keeping correspondence and project records in good order throughout the project directly affects the parties’ ability to prove their case if a claim or dispute arises.

Delay, variations, cost overruns, defective works, liquidated damages, calls on bank guarantees and termination are common issues in construction disputes. Depending on the contract, they are resolved before dispute boards, state courts or in domestic and international arbitration, and often require technical expert analysis.

Our firm advises employers, contractors and subcontractors from contract preparation to the acceptance of the works, and represents them in claims processes and at every stage of a dispute.