Construction Law Blog

Construction Law Blog

Subcontractor Challenges under the New York Lien Law

The adage that you can not get blood from a stone may have its place in the rationale of New York Lien Law. Not that you will find this term included in any of the sections of the law, but this concept of reality is reflected in the hierarchy, structure, and availability of funds in the occurrence of a construction dispute.

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Environmental Regulations for Dredging and Coastal Development in New York State

New York State, with its extensive coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, Long Island Sound, and the Great Lakes, as well as its numerous rivers and estuaries, is a hub for marine construction and coastal development. From maintaining vital navigation channels through dredging to building essential infrastructure like docks and seawalls, these projects are crucial for economic activity, recreation, and coastal resilience. However, they also carry the potential for significant environmental impact. Navigating the complex web of federal and state environmental regulations is paramount for any project to proceed smoothly and responsibly.

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Top 5 Contractor Defenses in New York

Contractors are not only responsible for performing their contracted work, but are also charged with keeping the owner and the subcontractors working together to bring the project to completion successfully. Given this, they are regularly the subject of legal disputes. For this reason, many could benefit from an understanding of the following top 5 contractor defenses available in New York.

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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”

Construction Warranties in New York. Sometimes Less is More.

Any property owner considering construction work will want reassurance that the work will be done well, and will be free of defects for a specified time frame. Many contractors even include a warranty clause in their contract. Such warranties (also called guarantees) require the contractor to correct any defects through additional work on the project over the specified time. What are some of the specific factors within Construction Warranties?

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Unearthing the Empire State: A Guide to Excavating in New York

Beneath the bustling streets of New York City, the serene farmlands of the Hudson Valley, and the rugged terrain of the Adirondacks lies a hidden world of infrastructure, history, and potential hazards. Excavation, the process of removing earth, is a fundamental activity in construction, infrastructure development, and even archaeological discovery across the Empire State.

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Contractors in New York may not be bound by Architect Certifications

Construction contracts in New York often place the architect or engineer in the additional role of an initial impartial decider as to any disagreement or disputes between the contractor and the owner, in addition to their roles as the design professionals.

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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.

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Revitalizing New York Villages: Preserving History Through Grants and Careful Restoration Maintenance

New York State’s charming villages, with their rich histories and unique architectural heritage, are vital threads in the state’s cultural fabric. Recognizing the importance of preserving this legacy while fostering vibrant communities, New York State offers various grant programs aimed at revitalizing these historic areas. These initiatives empower villages to breathe new life into aging structures and public spaces without sacrificing the historical integrity that makes them so special. Instead of demolition, the focus is on thoughtful restoration and adaptive reuse, ensuring that the stories etched in brick and mortar continue to enrich future generations.

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Exploring the Marvels and Menaces of Bridge Construction

Since the earliest days of civilization, humans have sought to overcome physical barriers, and the bridge stands as a testament to our ingenuity and determination. These magnificent structures, soaring across valleys, rivers, and straits, are more than just pathways; they are vital arteries of commerce, connection, and progress. From ancient Roman aqueducts to the sleek, modern cable-stayed spans of today, bridge building has continually evolved, pushing the boundaries of engineering and design. However, this ambitious endeavor is not without its complexities. Constructing these monumental links presents a unique set of advantages and disadvantages, and in our increasingly interconnected and environmentally conscious world, new considerations, such as charging electric vehicles and ecological impacts, are coming to the forefront. This article will delve into the multifaceted world of bridge construction, exploring its benefits, drawbacks, the emergence of innovative features, its effects on ecosystems, and the sobering realities of workplace hazards.

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