Author: John Caravella

Protecting Yourself from Usury and Racketeering in Construction

Whenever we hear the terms Usury and Racketeering, we think of two things, organized crime, and the RICO Act. But did you know that these two terms are very common within the New York Construction industry? Whether you are a homeowner, a contractor or a commercial business owner, usury and racketeering come in many different shapes and sizes. What are the types of Construction Usury, and how can we protect ourselves?

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Earth Day and our part in Sustainable Construction

Earth Day, celebrated annually on April 22nd, serves as a powerful reminder of our planet’s fragility and the urgent need for environmental stewardship. While many associate Earth Day with recycling drives and tree planting, its impact extends far beyond these visible acts. It plays a crucial role in driving the adoption of sustainable construction practices, a vital component in mitigating climate change and fostering a healthier planet.

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Toxic Risks in Home Renovations

Renovating Carries Toxic Chemical Risks, but Hazards Can Be Minimized

During any home renovation project, care should be taken to protect the home’s residents from any toxic substances that might be removed or installed. Lead, asbestos and other harmful substances lurk in many homes and could cause serious health problems if disturbed. Here’s a look at some of the most common hazardous chemicals homeowners are faced with during remodeling and what can be done to reduce those risks.

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Protections Provided to Contractors and Architects Under New York’s Economic Loss Rule

In a nutshell, the  “economic loss rule” is a rule that courts use to prevent a plaintiff from against a defendant for a tort (usually negligence) when the essence of the claim is for failure to live up to the terms of a contract.

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Metro New York’s Land Crunch and its Impact on Construction

The iconic skyline of New York City casts a long shadow, stretching far beyond its five boroughs. But that shadow, while representing growth and prosperity, also highlights a growing concern for the surrounding metropolitan areas: a severe land shortage. Counties and towns across Metro New York are feeling the squeeze, impacting everything from residential development to the very supply chains that fuel the construction industry.

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Homeowner Liability for Contractor Injuries in New York

Can homeowners be held responsible for injuries that may occur to contractors while work is being done on their property? Many homeowners love new home face-lifts, but did they ever think what a dangerous home improvement job consisted of? Well, what happens if a contractor is injured while working? Who is responsible for their medical costs?

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Press Release: New Technology and Building Innovations for New York City Boroughs

Press Release from NYCDOB New York, NY – Commissioner Jimmy Oddo announced today that the Department of Buildings (DOB) is convening a new Innovation Review Board, tasked with evaluating cutting-edge technologies that can potentially be used in the construction and development sectors here in New York City.

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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!

 

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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.

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Building Tomorrow, Today: How Robots are Reshaping the United States Construction Industry

The clang of hammers and the roar of bulldozers have long been the soundtrack of American construction. But a new, more precise and efficient melody is emerging, one composed of whirring motors and articulated arms. Robots are no longer confined to science fiction; they’re actively transforming the way homes and infrastructure are built across the United States, promising faster, safer, and more sustainable construction practices. From the bustling streets of New York to the sun-drenched landscapes of Florida, the construction industry is embracing automation, and the results are truly groundbreaking.

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