Common law: Judge-made law which has developed over centuries, also referred to as “unwritten” law. Common law (as practised in Ireland, England and the USA) is often contrasted with civil law systems (such as in France or Germany) where laws are set down in a written code.
Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL)
A system eventually intended to largely replace Section 106 agreements by which local authorities can raise funds from owners or developers of land undertaking new building projects in their area to support the provision of infrastructure needed to serve the development.
Community Strategy
A strategy prepared by a local authority to improve local quality of life and aspirations, under the Local Government Act 2000.
Company
Company: Legal entity which permits a group of shareholders to create an organization to pursue set objectives. A company may have legal rights which are usually reserved for individuals, such as the power to sue and be sued, own property, hire employees or lend and borrow money. The main advantage of a company structure is that it gives shareholders a right to participate in profits (through dividends) without any personal liability.
Competent Person
A person who has been adequately trained and has the appropriate skills and knowledge to perform certain health and safety tasks without posing a risk to themselves or others.
Completion / Practical Completion
state of readiness for occupation of the whole construction works, some minor construction work may still be outstanding. In some contracts (3.1.2) the terms practical completion and substantial completion are used.
Completion Date
date when completion (3.5.23) takes place
Completion of Defects Certificate
document issued after the end of the defects liability period that confirms or attests the making good of defects
Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO)
An order issued by the government or a local authority to acquire land or buildings in the wider public interest, e.g. for the construction of a major road or to regenerate an area.
Conditions (on a Planning Permission)
Requirements attached to a planning permission that limit or direct the manner in which development is carried out. Should these be breached then the Local Planning Authority can take enforcement action.
