Construction Law Blog

Keeping the Wheels Turning: Understanding New York’s Prompt Payment Laws in Construction

In the bustling construction landscape of New York, timely payment is crucial for the smooth operation of projects and the financial stability of contractors and subcontractors. However, payment delays can create a ripple effect, leading to financial hardship, project delays, and even legal disputes. This is where New York’s prompt payment laws step in, providing a framework to ensure that payments are made within reasonable timeframes. These laws, found within Article 35-E of the New York State General Business Law, aim to prevent unfair payment practices and promote a healthy flow of funds throughout the construction industry.

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Engineering Long Island’s New Coastal Guardrails

For decades, marine construction on Long Island was a straightforward, heavy-civil game: if a shoreline was eroding, you drove steel sheet piles, poured concrete, or stacked massive riprap boulders. But a sweeping combination of environmental reality, shifting state legislation, and updated procurement rules has completely rewritten the playbook.

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4 Tips to Help You Build a Custom Home

This article was written by guest blogger Suzie Wilson.

When you build a custom home you get to bring your vision to life and create the house of your dreams from the ground up. However, it takes a lot of planning and careful decision-making to build a custom home, and there are several things you’ll need to get started. Finding the right professionals to help you create the house is essential, and from there you’ll need to create a plan in order to stay on task and on budget. Of course, you’ll also need to think about buying land in just the right spot, and that can be quite a job in itself. So, here are four tips to help you get started when you’re ready to build your dream home.

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Construction Materials: Domestic Production, Imports, and Exports

The United States construction industry is anchored in an intricate supply chain encompassing locally sourced raw materials, international trade, and global market dynamics. While many essential building components—such as aggregates, cement, and steel—are produced domestically, the supply chain also heavily relies on strategic imports. This article presents an academic yet accessible overview of which construction materials originate in the U.S., which are exported, and which are imported—and why these trade patterns matter for industry resilience and policymaking.

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Understanding Architectural and Construction Limitations in Co-op Units: NYC vs. Long Island Counties

Co-Op apartments, or cooperative housing, are residential buildings owned by a corporation where residents purchase shares to gain the right to live in a unit. Unlike traditional homeownership, residents do not own their individual units but rather a share in the entire property. Construction limitations for Co-Op apartments often include restrictions on major renovations and structural changes, as these require approval from the cooperative board. Additionally, financing for Co-Op apartments can be more complex due to stringent lender requirements. These factors make Co-Op living unique and sometimes challenging compared to other housing options.

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How Modern Marine Construction is Reviving East Coast Ecosystems

When most people think of marine construction, they picture heavy machinery, disrupted shorelines, and industrial grey concrete. Historically, development along our coasts has driven habitat fragmentation, replacing complex natural ecosystems with flat, lifeless seawalls.

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The Top Ten Questions to Ask your New Contractor

 

Time and time again, homeowners are so excited about a new construction project, they go into the project blindly, forgetting to ask basic questions which can make or break their relationship with a contractor or architect. Before starting any type of construction project, it’s wise to ask these ten most-forgotten questions to ensure your construction project is timely, organized, and protected.

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5 Reasons to Consider Arbitration for Your Construction Dispute

 

In a recent client conference, I was asked, “So what is arbitration, anyhow?” In the context of a construction claim or in seeking to prevent such a claim, there are several significant advantages that arbitration can provide in lieu of litigation. In today’s challenging business environment, this signifies awareness of the various options available that could make an important impact on your business’ circumstance.

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The Unequal Reality of New York Construction Delays

Everyone knows that time is money, and in particular this is true with New York construction contracts. It is also well known that delays are often part of the construction reality, along with change orders and extras. Delays impact owners, contractors and subcontractors.

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Navigating Construction Disputes: Litigation vs. Arbitration in New York and Florida

When it comes to resolving construction disputes, the choice between litigation and arbitration can significantly impact the outcome. Whether you’re dealing with a project in the bustling streets of New York or the sunny landscapes of Florida, understanding the differences between these two methods is crucial. This blog will delve into the nuances of construction litigation and arbitration, and provide detailed steps on how to initiate these processes in both New York and Florida.

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Get an Experienced Construction Litigation and Arbitration Firm Fighting for You!

The Law Offices of John Caravella, P.C. offers a free initial consultation with a Long Island construction attorney to discuss your legal concerns with no obligation. To schedule an appointment, call our office today or fill out the form below.