Johannesburg – A law firm has issued an alert for construction sites to update their employment records in preparation for scheduled anti-immigrant protests on Tuesday, 30 June 2026.
These demonstrations arise from various perceived issues, notably the employment of foreign workers.
Experts in construction law from MDA Attorneys warned on Sunday, 28 June 2026, about potential disturbances that could threaten project timelines, underscoring the importance of advance preparation for companies.
The firm notes that construction sites are particularly vulnerable since they are usually more visible and accessible than other work environments.
Located within communities, these sites consist of a diverse workforce, including main contractors, subcontractors, labor brokers, and temporary staff working simultaneously.
“Disruptions at these locations could result in delays, restricted access, property damage, and costly disputes, similar to past incidents such as the July 2021 unrest in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, as well as ongoing ‘construction mafia’ issues,” cautioned Odette Potgieter, director at MDA Attorneys.
Earlier occurrences forced contractors to deal with site closures, delivery delays, property damage, and prolonged downtime.
“Contractors conveyed worries about project profitability,” Potgieter commented.
“They needed to assess whether they could claim additional time or costs from employers and insurers, and whether force majeure clauses applicable to unavoidable circumstances were relevant.”
“Contractors who had clear procedures, precise records, and adhered to contracts managed these challenges more successfully, with timely notifications playing a crucial role in supporting their claims.”
Recommended Actions for Contractors
- Verify that employment and contractor records are precise and current.
- Obtain written assurances from subcontractors regarding their compliance obligations.
- Notify site personnel of who holds the legal authority to request documents or access.
- Establish clear site protocols.
- Appoint an individual to manage interactions with external entities.
- Instruct security teams on appropriate responses and contacts in the event of incidents.
- Start maintaining comprehensive records, including site diaries, photographs, correspondence, program updates, and delivery logs.
- Engage proactively with clients.
In the Event of Disruption
Depending on contractual agreements, contractors may be eligible for additional time, compensation, or even a work stoppage, but only if they adhere to the correct procedures within stipulated timeframes.
Most standard construction contracts impose rigid deadlines and procedures, making compliance essential to uphold legitimate claims.
Maintaining transparent records, engaging with clients promptly, and keeping stakeholders informed as situations develop positions contractors much more favorably.
“Contractors who successfully manage these situations are rarely those who react effectively on the day,” Potgieter noted.
“They are usually the ones who anticipated the challenges, understood their risks, and took proactive steps ahead of time.”
