Construction failures rarely result from a single technical error. More often, they emerge from a combination of poor decisions, weak governance, fragmented responsibilities, inadequate competence and warning signs that were missed or ignored. Drawing on major case studies from the UK and around the world, Dr Lundy will explore what past failures can teach today’s construction and property professionals. The presentation will examine the recurring organisational, technical and cultural factors behind catastrophic events and consider how stronger competence, communication, assurance and professional challenge can prevent history from repeating itself. The session will translate these lessons into practical principles that can be applied across the design, construction, occupation and management of buildings.