Construction projects, whether commercial or residential, can get complicated. Despite the best-laid plans, issues between property owners, contractors, subcontractors, architects, and suppliers often arise. These disputes can lead to major headaches, additional costs, and stalled timelines.
That’s where experienced construction dispute lawyers come in. By understanding the most common issues that crop up, they can help ensure you receive fair treatment. Here are the top types of construction disputes attorneys regularly handle.
Defective Workmanship
Few things are more frustrating than paying for quality work that ends up being shoddy and defective. Common problems covered under defective workmanship include:
– Cracking foundations or walls
– Leaking roofs, windows, or pipes
– Faulty wiring or ventilation systems
– Materials that don’t meet building code standards
A competent construction defect attorney can determine if the work violates local building codes or warranty agreements. They can then negotiate a fair settlement, which may include repairing defects or providing monetary compensation.
Change Order Disputes
Change orders are a necessary but often contentious part of construction projects. They document any changes to the original building plans and contracts. Disputes arise when contractors and clients can’t agree on the costs or scope of extra work.
For instance, contractors may request change orders for additional time and materials needed to implement new features. But clients may resist paying more if they feel the work was in the original agreement. Skilled construction lawyers can review contracts to determine if change orders are justified and ensure equitable billing.
Payment Issues
Money issues are all too common in construction. Contractors and subcontractors expect prompt payment upon completing work phases. But clients may withhold payment if the work has defects or doesn’t meet expectations.
Construction disputes attorneys can facilitate negotiations and enforce mechanic’s liens if needed. A mechanic’s lien prevents the sale or refinancing of a property until payments owed for improvements are made.
Delay Claims
Project delays cost both contractors and property owners money. Contractors may file claims to recover losses if delays result from an owner’s actions or failures. Owners can also pursue claims against contractors for schedule overruns.
Experienced construction delay claim attorneys can determine if delays were excusable under force majeure clauses. If delays were avoidable, they could recover owed compensation through mediation or litigation if needed.
Insurance Disputes
Construction projects require various insurance policies to protect against property damage, injuries, and other liabilities. Disputes can arise involving policy coverage, exclusions, claims handling, and premium payments.
For instance, clients and contractors may disagree over who should pay a claim after an accident. Or they may argue over whether the damage resulted from faulty workmanship or an insured event. Skilled construction insurance attorneys can resolve ambiguities based on policy language and precedent.
Getting What You Deserve: Resolving Types of Construction Disputes
By understanding the complex web of relationships and contracts in construction projects, lawyers specializing in this field can resolve disputes equitably and efficiently. They have the expertise to navigate regulations, review documents and use tools like mediation or binding arbitration to reach resolutions. This allows builders and property owners to recover justified losses, complete projects, and avoid unnecessary expenses.
So if you encounter defects, delays, or disagreements on a construction project, don’t go it alone. Contact experienced construction dispute attorneys to protect your rights and get what you deserve. With their guidance, you can move forward and achieve your building goals.
