Tao Smart


Tao is a construction lawyer specialising in construction and engineering disputes.

Tao's clients include developers, contractors, sub-contractors and consultants. She advises throughout the dispute resolution procedure including on dispute avoidance, adjudication, court proceedings, commercial negotiation and mediation.
Tao advises on a range of disputes including defects in design and construction, non-payment, professional negligence and final account issues. Her recent experience includes acting for a main contractor in relation to unpaid applications for payments following the construction of multi-purpose 20 floor tower block; acting in respect of reactive maintenance works under a NEC3 Contract at various NHS hospital sites; and acting for a developer in respect of claims against a contract administrator for breach of appointment and professional negligence.

Tao also acts for both developers and contractors in relation to retention and defect related issues.

News

Trowers & Hamlins retains 10 trainees for Autumn 2019

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Event

Property & Development Breakfast Briefing

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Insight

Building safety: can defects frustrate a commercial lease?

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Mulalley & Co Ltd v Sto Ltd & Sto SE & Co KGaA [2026] EWHC 1552 (TCC)

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Adjudication update - Summer 2026

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Insight

Getting ready for the Commercial Payments Act

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