Primary AIA Contract Documents

Last quarter, John Caravella was invited to speak at the AIA Contract Documents Workshop where he was able to share his knowledge about Construction Contract Interpretation and Fundamentals. In this specific article, we discuss the document types between different parties, to ensure the correct contract is being utilized for your specific type of work.

Continue reading “Primary AIA Contract Documents”

Understanding Roles and Relationships of Construction Project Participants. Who Does What?

On October 17th, John Caravella was invited to speak at the AIA Contract Document Workshop where he was able to share his knowledge about Construction Contract Interpretation and Fundamentals. In this specific article, we share the Roles and Relationships of Construction Project Participants. This way, we can fully understand who really does what on a construction job site.

Continue reading “Understanding Roles and Relationships of Construction Project Participants. Who Does What?”

Hiring a Contractor: Top 3 Things Every Homeowner Needs To Verify

Time and time again, homeowners hire fraudulent contractors without knowing so. There are many instances where the homeowner will hire a contractor without really knowing what they’re all about. Usually out of excitement, or desperation to complete unfinished work, homeowners will too often hire their contractor based off an estimate, without digging deeper as to the insurance status or legitimacy of the contractor’s business. With that said, what are the top 3 things every homeowner needs to verify before hiring a contractor and signing the contract? Continue reading “Hiring a Contractor: Top 3 Things Every Homeowner Needs To Verify”

Top 5 Tips for New York Residential Contractors

Often times in discussions with contractors, I hear many of the same types of issues repeat themselves, and from the perspective of counsel, quite preventable. While not every potential problem on a project can be determined upfront, keeping the following 5 tips for contractors in mind might be helpful in preventing problems, improving business practices, and effectively managing risks.

Continue reading “Top 5 Tips for New York Residential Contractors”

Contractor Scaffold Law Liability

Much construction litigation arises from disputes over Scaffold Law liability. Simply, the Scaffold Law makes certain contractors and project owners liable for injuries to workers on construction sites. The Scaffold Law has been criticized for the burdens it imposes on contractors and owners and for allowing workers to collect even if they have ignored safety rules.

Continue reading “Contractor Scaffold Law Liability”

Complying with the Rules and Regulations on the Practice of Architecture; Part 2 of 2 – Disciplinary Actions and Revocation of your Architectural License.

This is a continuing article series regarding Compliance with the Rules and Regulations on the Practice of Architecture. These include two topics, Requirements & Duties of Maintaining your Architectural License (Part 1), and Disciplinary Actions and Revocation of your Architectural License (Part 2). Continue reading “Complying with the Rules and Regulations on the Practice of Architecture; Part 2 of 2 – Disciplinary Actions and Revocation of your Architectural License.”

Complying with the Rules and Regulations on the Practice of Architecture; Part 1 of 2 – Requirements & Duties of Maintaining your Architectural License.

This is a continuing article series regarding Compliance with the Rules and Regulations on the Practice of Architecture. These include two topics, Requirements & Duties of Maintaining your Architectural License (Part 1), and Disciplinary Actions and Revocation of your Architectural License (Part 2).

Continue reading “Complying with the Rules and Regulations on the Practice of Architecture; Part 1 of 2 – Requirements & Duties of Maintaining your Architectural License.”

Construction Plans and Architectural Designs

It’s one thing to say what you want in your construction project, but it is another thing to properly document your dream design on paper in the form of legitimate construction plans. Within this article, you will have a better understanding of what is included in detailed construction plans, as well as the understanding of common symbols used in the architectural industry. Whether you are a project owner or contractor, always remember your construction drawings take precedence over performance specifications in the state of New York.

Continue reading “Construction Plans and Architectural Designs”

Understanding the Importance of Building Permits

What do you need a building permit for? This is one of the most common questions regarding construction. Building permits are both important and necessary and the failure to obtain one can cause major obstacles down the road.  Building permits are needed whenever a homeowner is altering or expanding their current home, installing a swimming pool, deck, shed or more.  Building permits are more important than you think, and here’s why!

 

Continue reading “Understanding the Importance of Building Permits”

Why Homeowners are Vulnerable When Hiring an Unlicensed Contractor

Managing a budget is generally a high priority on a homeowner’s list when beginning a home improvement project.  Unfortunately, many homeowners make the mistake of saving money by hiring an unlicensed contractor.  Although it may seem to be the more attractive, less expensive option, hiring an unlicensed contractor to save some money could be very problematic, leading to long-term negative financial effects or legal consequences.  This is due to the fact that there is no guarantee that an unlicensed contractor will have the necessary insurance policies in place to protect your property, themselves, their workers, and any other damages that may arise from their construction work.

Continue reading “Why Homeowners are Vulnerable When Hiring an Unlicensed Contractor”