Top 5 Tips for New York Residential Contractors

Often times in discussions with contractors, I hear many of the same types of issues repeat themselves, and from the perspective of counsel, quite preventable. While not every potential problem on a project can be determined upfront, keeping the following 5 tips for contractors in mind might be helpful in preventing problems, improving business practices, and effectively managing risks.

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Contractor Scaffold Law Liability

Much construction litigation arises from disputes over Scaffold Law liability. Simply, the Scaffold Law makes certain contractors and project owners liable for injuries to workers on construction sites. The Scaffold Law has been criticized for the burdens it imposes on contractors and owners and for allowing workers to collect even if they have ignored safety rules.

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Complying with the Rules and Regulations on the Practice of Architecture; Part 2 of 2 – Disciplinary Actions and Revocation of your Architectural License.

This is a continuing article series regarding Compliance with the Rules and Regulations on the Practice of Architecture. These include two topics, Requirements & Duties of Maintaining your Architectural License (Part 1), and Disciplinary Actions and Revocation of your Architectural License (Part 2). Continue reading “Complying with the Rules and Regulations on the Practice of Architecture; Part 2 of 2 – Disciplinary Actions and Revocation of your Architectural License.”

Complying with the Rules and Regulations on the Practice of Architecture; Part 1 of 2 – Requirements & Duties of Maintaining your Architectural License.

This is a continuing article series regarding Compliance with the Rules and Regulations on the Practice of Architecture. These include two topics, Requirements & Duties of Maintaining your Architectural License (Part 1), and Disciplinary Actions and Revocation of your Architectural License (Part 2).

Continue reading “Complying with the Rules and Regulations on the Practice of Architecture; Part 1 of 2 – Requirements & Duties of Maintaining your Architectural License.”

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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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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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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Holiday Weekends and Property Damage Liability

We all enjoy a warm weathered weekend with friends and family. In most cases, the only concern at barbecues is if the sun is going to stay out all day. But did you ever consider other concerns such as property safety and liability during the dog days of Summer? According to the National Fire Prevention Association, house fires due to barbecuing, holiday decorations and fireworks are more common then we think.

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