From the bustling skylines of New York to the sprawling developments of Florida, the construction industry is a cornerstone of economic growth. Yet, beneath the blueprints and hard hats lies a significant vulnerability: fraud. Particularly insidious is wire fraud, which can silently siphon funds from projects, leaving clients and legitimate contractors in a wake of financial devastation. Understanding the various forms of fraud prevalent in construction, especially in high-activity states like New York and Florida, is crucial for protecting your interests and fostering a more ethical building environment.

Continue reading “Understanding and Preventing Construction Contract Wire Fraud in New York and Florida”

Licensing Requirements for Architects

This is a continuing article series about professional licensing requirements for contractors, architects and interior designers located in New York and Florida. The construction and design industries are fundamental to a state’s infrastructure and residents’ quality of life. To safeguard public well-being, health, and safety, the practice within these fields is rigorously regulated. Professional licensure stands as a critical mechanism for upholding these standards, requiring practitioners to demonstrate competency through a combination of education, practical experience, and successful examination.

Continue reading “Navigating Professional Licensure: A Guide for Contractors, Architects, and Interior Designers in New York and Florida – Part Two”

The Law Offices of John Caravella, P.C. does not own this content. This content was created by Chris Jackson, and was published to Construction21 on 2/11/2/21. To view the full article, please click here. 

The construction industry is one of the most prominent consumers of minerals and natural resources by its very nature. The need and significance of sustainability in construction have become a debated topic due to the growing concerns over global warming and the finite nature of resources. This conventional truth caused increased pressure on construction firms to reduce their environmental impact.

Continue reading “The Methods and Benefits of Sustainable Construction – a Construction21 Article”

This article was written by guest blogger Suzie Wilson.

Contracts form the backbone of any construction business, establishing clear, effective communication and understanding between parties. They ensure that every project’s details are agreed upon, protect your interests, and help avoid conflicts. Understanding how to manage these documents efficiently is critical for success in the construction industry. This article, presented by The Law Offices of John Caravella, P.C., explores several key areas to enhance your contract management skills.

Continue reading “Mastering Contract Management in Construction: A Business Owner’s Guide”

This is a continuing article series about professional licensing requirements for contractors, architects and interior designers located in New York and Florida. The construction and design industries are fundamental to a state’s infrastructure and residents’ quality of life. To safeguard public well-being, health, and safety, the practice within these fields is rigorously regulated. Professional licensure stands as a critical mechanism for upholding these standards, requiring practitioners to demonstrate competency through a combination of education, practical experience, and successful examination.

Continue reading “Navigating Professional Licensure: A Guide for Contractors, Architects, and Interior Designers in New York and Florida – Part One”

New York City, a vibrant coastal metropolis, faces significant challenges from rising sea levels and increasingly severe weather events. In the wake of past storms, the need for robust infrastructure and comprehensive resilience strategies has become paramount. This commitment to safeguarding communities and vital systems is reflected in substantial investments aimed at mitigating future flood risks and enhancing the city’s ability to bounce back stronger.

Continue reading “A Look at Flood Risk Reduction Investments in New York City”

New York’s unique Scaffold Law has long been a point of contention for contractors and property owners, largely due to its “absolute liability” standard. This standard holds owners and contractors fully responsible for gravity-related injuries on construction sites, even if worker negligence played a role. Consequently, liability insurance premiums in New York are significantly higher—around 30% more than in other states.

Continue reading “Potential Relief for Contractors: Proposed Changes to New York’s Scaffold Law”