Construction Law Blog

Protecting Yourself from Usury and Racketeering in Construction

Whenever we hear the terms Usury and Racketeering, we think of two things, organized crime, and the RICO Act. But did you know that these two terms are very common within the New York Construction industry? Whether you are a homeowner, a contractor or a commercial business owner, usury and racketeering come in many different shapes and sizes. What are the types of Construction Usury, and how can we protect ourselves?

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How Lumber Costs are Shaping the US Construction Landscape

From individual homeowners embarking on renovations to large-scale developers breaking ground on new communities, the increased cost of wood is having a profound and multifaceted impact across the United States. Understanding the factors driving these high prices, the region’s most acutely affected by shortages, and the intricate supply chains that bring lumber to our construction sites is crucial to navigating this evolving landscape.

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Building a Greener Future: Decarbonizing Construction in New York and Florida

The construction industry, a vital engine of economic growth, also carries a significant carbon footprint. From the energy-intensive production of materials like cement and steel to the fuel consumed by heavy machinery on job sites, the sector contributes substantially to greenhouse gas emissions. Recognizing this impact, both New York State and Florida State are actively pursuing decarbonization efforts within their construction industries, albeit with distinct approaches shaped by their unique climates, economies, and policy landscapes.

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Toxic Risks in Home Renovations

Renovating Carries Toxic Chemical Risks, but Hazards Can Be Minimized

During any home renovation project, care should be taken to protect the home’s residents from any toxic substances that might be removed or installed. Lead, asbestos and other harmful substances lurk in many homes and could cause serious health problems if disturbed. Here’s a look at some of the most common hazardous chemicals homeowners are faced with during remodeling and what can be done to reduce those risks.

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Are We On The Same Page? How Construction Document Conflicts Are Resolved

Given the large number and variety of documents required to administer a construction project today (plans, specifications, contracts, etc.), the likelihood of discrepancies arising between these different sources is almost unavoidable. Do you know how these documents rate in terms of their authority?

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Usury and Racketeering in the Construction Industry

The construction industry, with its complex web of projects, financing, and labor, can unfortunately become fertile ground for illicit activities. While the vast majority of professionals operate with integrity, the lure of quick and illegal profits can sometimes lead to the entanglement of construction with serious crimes like usury and racketeering. Understanding these issues and their potential impact is crucial for anyone involved in or observing this vital sector. Continue reading “Usury and Racketeering in the Construction Industry”

Building Tomorrow, Today: How Robots are Reshaping the United States Construction Industry

The clang of hammers and the roar of bulldozers have long been the soundtrack of American construction. But a new, more precise and efficient melody is emerging, one composed of whirring motors and articulated arms. Robots are no longer confined to science fiction; they’re actively transforming the way homes and infrastructure are built across the United States, promising faster, safer, and more sustainable construction practices. From the bustling streets of New York to the sun-drenched landscapes of Florida, the construction industry is embracing automation, and the results are truly groundbreaking.

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The Top 5 Avenues of Architect Liability in New York

Architects in New York can be found liable for damages in various situations, depending on who claims damage, and the basis of the claim itself. For example, where an owner has a direct contract with the architect, the owner could bring forth a simple claim based on the contract or a claim based on a tort action. Such a tort action, based on negligence, is a claim for malpractice.

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Is It Worth It To Elevate Your Home?


One of the most common causes of home elevation is extreme weathering and flooding. In general, there are two options when deciding to elevate your home. The homeowner can physically lift the home, building a new foundation at the bottom, or leaving the home as is, but just building a “livable space” upper level, alternatively converting the ground level to a complete closure.

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How Robotic Technology is Reshaping the Construction Industry

The construction industry is undergoing a major transformation as contractors, developers, and design teams increasingly adopt robotics and digital preconstruction technologies to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and combat ongoing labor shortages. From AI-powered estimating platforms to robotic layout systems that print building plans directly onto jobsite floors, technology is becoming a critical part of modern construction operations. Continue reading “How Robotic Technology is Reshaping the Construction Industry”

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