Construction contracts can shield you from liability

A well-drafted contract is the cornerstone of a successful construction project.

Constructing your dreams one contract at a time

For those who are involved with multimillion-dollar construction projects, it’s common to run into events that might trigger expensive and time-consuming litigation.

Such litigation can be costly, emotionally challenging, and take what feels like an eternity to reach a resolution which none of the parties are happy with.

The stakes are even higher when parties have the funds to engage in seemingly endless litigation, which results in a life changing lawsuit that might have a permanent impact on those involved.

Whether it is a high-end new from the ground up residential estate, a high-end residential remodel, or commercial construction or renovations, it’s wise to have a well-crafted construction contract to cover all the aspects of the project to protect your interests.

Avoid Construction Disputes with a Well-Drafted Contract

If the project involves a “new from the ground up” multimillion-dollar residential estate, or a new or renovated commercial building, there is a greater range of flexibility for the parties to draft their own contract terms, in the way that they would like.

However, if the project involves renovations to an existing residence, both multimillion-dollar renovation projects and small residential tasks in excess of $500 may require the parties to meet the strict obligations in California’s home improvement contract regulations.

There are requirements for the use of specific terminology for home improvement contracts, some of which can be customized and some cannot, making it extremely important for homeowners and contractors to utilize a contract that adheres to these regulations.

Contracts to Protect Your Construction Business

Protect your business. Get a skilled attorney who can help with the many facets for the construction project, including:

  • Prime Contracts (contracts entered into between an owner and contractor)
  • Subcontract Agreements (contracts entered into between general contractors and their subcontractors)
  • Purchase Orders (contracts with materials suppliers who are not expected to perform work)
  • Apportioning liability between the parties to the contract, for different events which can occur before, during or after completion of construction.
  • Confirming how cost escalations are handled, whether caused by COVID, supply chain issues, or other factors.
  • Determining how changes in the scope or nature of the work will be confirmed, and the impact of those changes on both the cost and time needed for completion of the work.
  • Verifying the amount and process for handling contractor retention and progress payments.
  • Confirming who has responsibility for both construction design and construction permits.
  • Providing the procedures for resolving any disputes, whether those include an “initial decision maker,” litigation in the courts, binding contractual arbitration, or California’s statutory “judicial reference” system.