Top 3 New Construction Arbitration Rules That Expand Powers and Challenge Assumptions

When it comes to construction contracts, arbitration and mediation (Alternate Dispute Resolution) are both commonly specified for out of court dispute resolution.  The use of mediation and arbitration in construction contracts, both for small and large construction, has been increasingly common over the past decade.

Continue reading “Top 3 New Construction Arbitration Rules That Expand Powers and Challenge Assumptions”

Potential Liability With Cost-Plus Construction Contracts

What is a cost-plus construction contract? A cost-plus construction contract is a contract in which a contractor agrees to be paid for all of his costs including a certain percentage for his expenses and profit. The pros vs. the cons of cost-plus construction contract format are a business decision, but cost-plus construction contract also raises legal issues contractors should be aware of before agreeing.

Continue reading “Potential Liability With Cost-Plus Construction Contracts”

Scaffold Law Claims Against Contractors Continue To Increase

Few topics in construction law are more controversial than Labor Law Section 240, better known as the Scaffold Law, which imposes absolute liability on contractors, property owners, and their agents for elevation-related injuries to construction workers. The number of Scaffold Law cases has increased by 500% since 1990.[1]

Continue reading “Scaffold Law Claims Against Contractors Continue To Increase”

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.

Continue reading “Protections Provided to Contractors and Architects Under New York’s Economic Loss Rule”