We all know what a lien is. Depending on which side of the claim you’re on, a lien could be a good thing or a bad thing. According to Black’s Law Dictionary, the true definition of a lien is “a claim, encumbrance, or charge on property for payment of some debt, obligation or duty”. So, how is a Mechanics Lien any different?
Continue reading “What is a Mechanics Lien, and How Can It Affect Your Construction Experience?”
This is a continuing article series regarding Legal Issues for New York Architects. Originally presented by John Caravella, of the Law Offices of John Caravella, and Kimberly A. Steele of The Steele Law Firm and produced by HalfMoon Education Seminars, this presentation touches on the following topics, Complying with the Rules and Regulations on the Practice of Architecture (Part 1), Complying with New York Rules on Unprofessional Conduct (Part 2), Understanding and Complying with Barrier-Free Requirements (Part 3), Design and Construction Contract Law and Administration (Part 4), Understanding and Complying with the law on Design Professional Service Corporations (Part 5) and Building Code Updates (Part 6). Each series of topics discuss informative summaries of Legal Issues for New York Architects.
Continue reading “Legal Issues for New York Architects; Part 6 of 6 – Building Code Update”
Working too quickly to meet a completion deadline, running to the opposite side of the construction site, or even failing to pay attention to safety standards can all be fatal on a construction site. It is crucial – and lifesaving – to understand and know the safety measures that you must take to protect yourself and others on any given job site. In this article, we will discuss the fundamentals of construction site safety.
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Managing a budget is generally a high priority on a homeowner’s list when beginning a home improvement project. Unfortunately, many homeowners make the mistake of saving money by hiring an unlicensed contractor. Although it may seem to be the more attractive, less expensive option, hiring an unlicensed contractor to save some money could be very problematic, leading to long-term negative financial effects or legal consequences. This is due to the fact that there is no guarantee that an unlicensed contractor will have the necessary insurance policies in place to protect your property, themselves, their workers, and any other damages that may arise from their construction work.
Continue reading “Why Homeowners are Vulnerable When Hiring an Unlicensed Contractor”
Though an architect is responsible for designs and drawings, they also play a part in structural safety. Whether building single-family homes or a large corporate building, a professional in the architectural industry must have the proper education and experience to practice. This article about the commissioner’s regulations in architecture was presented by John Caravella during the “Design Professionals in New York” speaking engagement produced by HalfMoon Seminars.
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Construction contracts could be challenging and difficult to read but learning the basic terms can really make a difference. 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 simplified definitions of commonly used words within a construction agreement as well as exploring the law of Construction Contract Interpretation.
When it comes to a complex construction agreement, it’s typical practice to include specific terms within the contract relating to Trust and Confidence, and Fiduciary duties. Normally, a Fiduciary takes action as a trustee within the contract or agreement and are chosen to act on behalf of their client and make decisions for them when needed. With that said, what happens if you can no longer trust your trustee?
Have you ever hired a contractor who disappeared on you? Were you left with a half-completed home improvement project, with feelings of despair and frustration and not a clue as to what your next steps should be? You’re left with unused materials, shortage of capital, and a literal construction site in your home. Unfortunately, this happens to homeowners who hire both licensed and unlicensed contractors more often than you would think. However, there is recourse available. Below we discuss the steps that you can take and actions that you can pursue when your contractor abandoned your project before the construction is completed.
Continue reading “Your Contractor Abandoned Your Project – Now What?”
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”
Like the strings of a marionette puppet, after the completion of a New York construction project, there are various legal theories that serve as ties between the builder and the owner. For the builder, the sooner these lingering ties can be removed the less exposure they face for claims of defects. For the owners, the longer they are able to establish these connections, the longer they may have legal recourse against the builder for defects.
The Law Offices of John Caravella, P.C. offers a free initial consultation with a Long Island construction attorney to discuss your legal concerns with no obligation. To schedule an appointment, call our office today or fill out the form below.
