_______________________________________________________________________________________________ 3D construction
for developers to see the advantages that 3D printing can bring .
For example , most current housing developments built by 3D printers are intended for the homeless or for those less able to afford traditional brick-and-mortar homes . There is a huge area of opportunity here for 3D printed housing developers to work in conjunction with the rest of the housing market to provide the affordable homes that all too often fall by the wayside .
There is also the risk of an increase in intellectual property claims against developers . For example , intellectual property right holders may seek to enforce their rights if they are infringed by any form of the 3D printing process .
Navigating legal and contractual considerations
For 3D printing to become a more popular method of construction , it would be useful for the industry to have a bespoke contract for this method of construction , similar to NEC4 , which also accommodates modular construction . This would assist developers to consider various contractual considerations , including the usual risks and obligations . For example , risk management in the instance that defects arise , ensuring the printing machinery is in good working order and materials are sourced correctly to meet the construction timeline and budget are essential .
Furthermore , accountability for the quality of materials and machinery used in the 3D printed build must be established to assure customers the home will meet agreed-upon standards and be safe , comfortable , and insurable . Therefore , a robust selection process for sub-contractors and operators , coupled with meticulous due diligence activities , is essential to identify and mitigate potential risks .
Given that 3D printing in construction is a relatively new technology , additional regulations may be introduced as it gains popularity to ensure on-site safety , especially when workers interact with heavy machinery .
Developers venturing into the 3D printed space must remain fully aware of emerging regulations and legislation , including broader industry standards such as the Building Safety Act . Seeking professional advice when necessary is prudent .
The path forward
As long as profit remains one of the main drivers for the housing sector , 3D printed homes could face the same frustrations that MMC has faced and a real battle for mass adoption . However , what is clear is that there is a great case to be put forward that envisions 3D printed homes working in tandem with traditional developments . They can be built faster , more efficiently and for a relatively lower cost , providing an interesting potential solution to the housing crisis in the UK .
These homes could become gamechangers for those on low incomes or those struggling to afford to buy in the current economic climate , and with developers , government officials and local authorities all looking for solutions , 3D printed homes may yet provide part of the answer . ■
Zenab Khatun www . shma . co . uk
Zenab Khatun is a construction trainee solicitor at law firm Shakespeare Martineau . Working with organisations of all sizes , the firm delivers a broad range of specialist legal services and has expertise across multiple areas including but not limited to energy , education , banking and finance , healthcare , investment funds , manufacturing , agriculture , family business , Islamic finance , later living , social housing , charities and real estate . Shakespeare Martineau also provides services for families and private clients .
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