Build-to-rent (BTR) is booming in Texas, especially around Austin’s tech-fueled growth. According to UMoveFree, Austin saw over 3,000 build-to-rent units completed in both 2022 and 2023. Contractors also broke ground on dozens of communities between last year and now....
Construction Law
What is considered an excusable delay in construction?
All construction projects have specific terms that are outlined in the contract between the contractor and the client. This legal document covers a variety of terms, including the budget, scope of the project, intended materials and a general timeline. While...
Construction contracts provide protection for contractors
Construction projects have multiple moving parts and significant financial investments. For contractors, a well-drafted construction contract isn’t just a mere formality. Instead, it’s a key layer of protection against a host of liabilities. Contractors should be...
Are general contractors always to blame for construction defects?
When a property owner discovers a fault with a recently built or renovated building, the first thing they may well do is curse the general contractor that handled the project. They likely paid them a lot of money to do the work, so they are well within their rights to...
When can contractors withhold final work over nonpayment?
You have completed most of the work, stayed on schedule and kept your crew productive, yet the client still has not paid. The job is nearly done, but the check has not arrived. When this happens, it is natural to consider stopping work until payment comes through. In...
When a client complains about material substitutions
There are many scenarios in which construction professionals or businesses might face client complaints. In some cases, delays in project completion can lead to conflict. Other times, the client may express dissatisfaction with the quality of the finished work....
Can clients blame contractors for mold growth in a home?
Homeownership often involves a fight against entropy and natural forces. Properties may decline in condition over time unless homeowners are proactive about maintenance and repairs. For example, even a small amount of water incursion due to compromised home systems or...
What is scope creep in a construction contract?
Construction projects are often creative ideas that the client pays the contractor to bring to life. The project’s goals and deliverables are known as the scope of the project. When the client starts to make changes to the project, there’s a chance that scope creep...
Do subcontractors have any leverage in construction disputes?
Payment delays, contract disputes and change order disagreements can lead to serious financial challenges when subcontractors find themselves shortchanged in construction matters. Fortunately, while subcontractors may feel they have little power against general...
Is mold growth proof of improper construction practices?
Construction defect claims often arise immediately after the completion of a project. Clients may take issue with a material substitution or with the appearance of the final project. They initiate construction defect litigation to hold the company accountable....
