The construction of hospitals and healthcare facilities in the United States is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by a confluence of factors including technological advancements, evolving1 care models, increasing costs, and a greater emphasis on patient experience and sustainability. This evolution is shaping not only the physical structures of healthcare buildings but also the processes involved in their design and construction.
The safety and structural integrity of parking structures are paramount concerns in a densely populated urban environment like New York City. Recognizing the potential risks associated with aging infrastructure and heavy usage, the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) has established comprehensive regulations governing the inspection and maintenance of these facilities.
Continue reading “An Overview of NYC Parking Structure Regulations”
A recent report has highlighted a concerning future for the New York metropolitan area’s housing landscape, predicting that approximately 80,000 homes could be lost to flooding within the next 15 years, specifically by 2040. This alarming projection underscores the increasing threat posed by climate change, including rising sea levels and more frequent extreme weather events such as coastal storms and intense rainfall. The study emphasizes that this potential loss of housing stock will significantly exacerbate the region’s already critical housing shortage, potentially pushing the deficit to an estimated 1.2 million homes.
Continue reading “An Analysis of RPA’s ‘The State of Climate Adaptation’ Report”
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”
The vibrant bursts and dazzling displays of fireworks are a quintessential part of many celebrations, but behind the spectacle lies a serious risk of property damage and personal injury. While fireworks are intended to bring joy, they can quickly turn into a nightmare, leading to devastating fires and costly insurance claims. Understanding the potential dangers and taking necessary precautions is crucial to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Continue reading “Sparkling Dangers: Fireworks, Property Damage, and the Insurance Aftermath”
Many construction contracts in New York make reference to how or why one or both parties are provided the right to terminate the agreement. One such typical form of termination, ‘Termination for Convenience’, may be provided.
Continue reading “The Inconvenient Termination for Convenience”
Owners of New York based construction businesses are more likely to be mindful of construction law issues relating to contract performance and defective work. Many however are unaware they are also under increasing risks of liability in compliance with newly enacted requirements under New York Employment and Labor Laws.
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.
Continue reading “Building a Greener Future: Decarbonizing Construction in New York and Florida”
For New York Architects, Landscape Architects, Engineers, and Land Surveyors, exposure to liability on their completed projects may extend long beyond the completion of the project itself. Exactly how long design professionals can be ‘on the hook’ for claims has been a bit of a moving target in New York, with changes and proposed additional changes to this timeframe.
Continue reading “Design Professional Liability on Completed Work”
THE ECONOMIC LOSS RULE IN NEW YORK CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS:
WHAT IT IS AND HOW IT MAY BENEFIT CONTRACTORS AND ARCHITECTS
The “economic loss rule” is a rule that New York courts use to prevent a plaintiff from recovering against a defendant for a tort (usually negligence), when the essence of the plaintiff’s claim is for failure to live up to the terms of a contract.
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.
