This is a comparative review of construction techniques relating to low- and medium-rise buildings, based on five representative countries in the European Union - Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Portugal. Professional relationships and the roles of the architect, engineer and surveyor are described, together with contractual procedures as appropriate. Case-study examples are discussed under each country and the different techniques adopted for the construction of foundations, floors, internal and external walls, and roofs are illustrated. Comparative data on the other EU countries is also included.