Modern methods of construction (MMC)
Explore how we can help businesses with their legal requirements around property and land.
Contact our teamHome / Services / Business / Property and land / Modern methods of construction
Specialist lawyers in modern methods of construction (MMC)
In the exciting and complex world of modern methods of construction (MMC), we lead our clients through all the legal intricacies, so they can realise their objectives and grow their ambitions. Working as your lawyers, and as an integrated part of your team, our MMC legal experts are ready to provide solution focused advice tailored specifically to your needs.
We are widely recognised as one of the largest and most experienced land development teams in England. Our approach is partner led ensuring that clients have direct and regular contact with lawyers offering many years of experience in the industry to provide our clients with specific modular construction advice.
What is modern method of construction?
Historically most homes in the UK have been built using traditional construction (brick and block). MMC is a collective term used to describe alternative construction methods to brick and block, such as modular construction – off-site factory production of the component sections of properties which are transported to site for assembly.
As it’s reported that London’s Mayor Sadiq Kahn is assembling a new task force requesting MMC investment, it has never been more apparent just how important MMC construction is quickly becoming to the housebuilding industry.

Contact Zoe
What is modern methods of construction law?
Modern methods of construction law refers to the legal framework governing the use of innovative construction techniques and materials, such as off-site manufacturing and modular construction. It covers issues such as design liability, building regulations compliance, and contractual arrangements between parties involved in the construction process.
What are the common legal issues to be aware of in modern methods of construction?
MMC is new and innovative in the UK despite our European neighbours having using this method to build properties for many years. Therefore, confidence in the product and the change from traditional construction is the biggest obstacle to MMC being implemented by housebuilders. Once assurances and warranties can be given there will be greater confidence in MMC.
Long-term maintenance of MMC homes remains a concern. It is not believed this should be a problem due to the precision and energy efficiency that is incorporated into the design of these homes as standard. However, until they have been occupied for an extended period of time, this will remain an unknown.
Warranty providers and Insurers have been concerned for some time regarding risks involved when using MMC with particular concern regarding fire risk. The Fire Services are experienced in dealing with traditional buildings that catch fire, however, there is less awareness regarding materials used with MMC buildings.
Uncertainty over how materials will respond in a fire is a problem that can be intensified by a practice known as ‘product substitution’. Many buildings therefore have sprinkler systems installed. This can have an impact on cost and insurance for the owners of the apartments.
Meet our team of commercial property solicitors
Richard Hughes
Partner | Commercial property, Real estate, Real estate finance
Julian Parkes
Partner | Commercial property, Real estate, Landed estates and farming
Nellie van der Lande
Senior associate | Commercial property, Real estate finance, Rural services
Callum Leary
Senior associate | Commercial property, Real estate, Real estate finance
Sam Ho
Senior associate | Commercial property, Real estate, Real estate finance
Sharon Mays
Senior associate | Commercial property, Real estate, Land development, Real estate finance
Nicola Donnelly
Associate | Real estate, Plot sales, Residential property
Fiona Hampton
Chartered legal executive | Commercial property, Land development, Plot sales
Helen Archibald
Consultant | Commercial property, Real estate, Land development
Janice Taylor
Conveyancing executive | Real estate, Plot sales, Residential property
The three main factors driving MMC growth
1. Speed
Given the well-publicised shortage of housing in the UK the speed of MMC construction methods can deliver houses much faster than traditionally built houses.
2. Green agenda
Factors such as waste, minimising time and energy, pollution, disruption, reduction in HGV movement, regular product improvements, and reusable materials all contribute to the green agenda.
3. Consistency
The control of the factory build allows for greater quality control ensuring that every home is constructed to the same consistent high standard with fewer defects and snagging to attend to post completion especially in view of the New Homes Quality Code and New Homes Ombudsman which are being introduced imminently.
What are the other benefits of modern methods of construction?
As technology and modern practices continue to develop at an accelerated pace, it’s important that you can evaluate what might be the best option for you. Using MMC when starting a new construction project comes with many benefits, most importantly offering a safer work environment and offering more reliable and consistent results.
However, other factors that you might not be aware of include predictability, as using 3D printed models allows you to see where potential problems might appear during the early stages of the project, saving you time and money. These more modern practices also mean construction can offer a greater value to the community, producing jobs for those who may suffer from a disability or have responsibilities for others that mean they have other commitments they must balance with work. Finally, these kinds of projects disrupt areas far less, with many of the construction completed off-site at a factory, which means it is again more respectful to the communities around the site. So, it is worth considering the benefits that could arise from choosing modern methods of construction.
Are modern methods of construction sustainable?
A key aim of these newer methods of construction is to encourage a green agenda, as previously mentioned, and so sustainability is certainly very important. A large reason these methods are more sustainable is thanks to factory builds, which are made with greater precision to reduce waste, as well as use materials that are kinder to the planet and are more abundant.
What are the different types of modern methods of construction?
Thanks to the development of engineering and technology, there are many new and more efficient construction methods to choose from in order to improve the way that structures are built. These include the use of 3D models, flat slab construction, modular building, twin wall technology, and hybrid construction. They can be used individually or combined to manage projects that are quicker, safer, and better than ever, but they come with their own set of legislation that you must be aware of.
Commercial property & development brochure
Explore our commercial property and development legal services, helping businesses to prosper.
How Moore Barlow can help
Increased investment will continue to have a positive impact on modern methods of construction, making it a more attractive route for housebuilders. It is imperative, as a developer or housebuilder, that detailed points are raised during the design and construction phase of your project to ensure you have a clear appreciation of the proposal and are fully aware of the differences to traditional build.
We have acted for many housebuilders in the UK including dedicated modular housing providers. Should you require any further information or advice in relation to your business needs arounds modern methods of construction, please contact us today.
So, should you require any advice within your business in relation to any modern methods of construction matter why not contact Moore Barlow today.
We have offices in London, Richmond, Southampton, Guildford, Lymington and Woking, and offer specialist real estate law support to clients nationwide.
Contact our property and land team
Explore our commercial property legal insights
Don’t take our word for it…
Moore Barlow stepped into the breach at a time when we were undertaking the biggest property transaction in our history. They were nothing but highly professional, available, helpful and patient.
Legal 500, 2025
The commercial property team are extremely pragmatic and always work in the best interest of the client. The people are all knowledgeable and hardworking. They are able to translate complex legalese into plain English.
Legal 500, 2025
As our own business moves from start-up to growth mode, Moore Barlow have continued to scale and develop their service proportionally to meet our developing needs. They continue to adapt to our new systems, work collaboratively with us to ensure transparency in matters, and increase pace in delivery. We look forward to continuing to do business with them in the coming years.
Legal 500, 2024
Moore Barlow is known for residential and commercial development expertise. The firm continues to act for national and regional house builders, and it is also equipped to handle property finance, landlord and tenant matters and investment work. Its clients also benefit from the firm’s knowledge of agricultural property. In addition, the team is noted for its expertise in property transactions in the leisure industry.
Chambers & Partners, 2024
Moore Barlow’s property partners have an in-depth understanding of their area backed by familiarity with their clients and their businesses gained over decades of experience.
Chambers & Partners, 2024
The team’s focus on our needs and responsiveness makes it feel like we have in-house legal counsel. We have several active matters at any one time, and they have worked with us to develop continually-improving management systems to ensure everyone is up to date with what is happening.
Legal 500, 2023
We have had an incredibly positive experience working with Moore Barlow, especially considering that we are new to the UK property market. Their responsiveness, extensive knowledge, and clear communication have truly made them stand out. We were impressed by their considerate approach throughout the sales process, which made the entire experience feel both professional and personable. I highly recommend Moore Barlow for their exceptional service and unwavering commitment to client satisfaction.
Emma Plumridge – BoKlok Sales and Marketing Director
A competent, professional organisation that we are grateful to have on our side. The Moore Barlow team have proved patient, and highly flexible, supporting us as we develop our acquisition strategy, and dealing efficiently with the many landlords’ solicitors that are not normally comfortable with our market. For us, the biggest plus is that we can be confident that, where matters are dragging on, it is the landlord that we need to be chasing, not Moore Barlow. They work very well with us to ensure that they/we are never holding up a transaction, and so together we demonstrate absolute professionalism.
Legal 500, 2022
From our numerous dealings with the firm there is clear evidence of a team spirit. Each member of the team works to a high standard and you have confidence with whoever you are dealing with that the task will get done. They are always helpful and will go out of their way to answer any queries we may have.