Extra Work in Construction Contracts

A construction worker in a safety vest crouching next to a wheelbarrow, holding a hard hat and wiping his forehead in exhaustion, with buildings in the background

With all construction projects situations arise that will require work outside the original scope of the contract. What is the correct way to add additional work? Once a contract is signed by the parties it can only be changed in writing and signed by both parties. What does that mean for contractors? If you do […]

Is There a Penalty When a Contractor Does Not Finish on Time?

A construction worker wearing a safety vest sits at a desk, holding his head in frustration, with a hard hat and a laptop in front of him

Whether or not there is a penalty for a contractor failing to finish on time depends on what the contract says about the completion date and what happens if construction is not completed by that date. Because the contracts are so very different in residential and commercial construction, I will address each separately.  Penalties for […]

What Happens After a Termination for Convenience?

Person tearing a document in half at a desk with a cup of coffee, an envelope, and a laptop nearby, suggesting the cancellation or termination of a contract

Most commercial construction subcontracts have a termination for convenience clause. This clause means that the general contractor can terminate the subcontractor at any time for no reason, just because it is convenient to the general contractor. But what happens after a termination for convenience? A termination for convenience clause exists to allow the general contractor […]

What is a Mechanics and Materialman’s Lien?

Also sometimes referred to as a Construction Lien The idea that people who build things need to get paid for the work they do is as old the USA.  Back in the day construction workers were called mechanics and around the time when our capital building was being built, they were a little nervous about […]

The Termination for Convenience Clause

termination for convenience clause

If your subcontract contains a termination for convenience clause, the general contractor isn’t held to the same standard and can walk away from their obligations to you at any time.

Why You Need an Up-to-Date Residential Contract

up to date residential contract

We have contractor clients all over the country and one of the first questions we get when we talk about their contracts is, “I am not sure it is up to date.” Now there are a few different ways we consider this question. Let’s look at why it’s important to have an up-to-date residential contract. […]

Why Negotiate Your Commercial Subcontract

negotiate your commercial subcontract

TCLF Owner and Managing Partner Karalynn Cromeens answers the question “Why should you negotiate your commercial subcontract?” I can remember the first time a read a commercial subcontract as a baby attorney, I thought it was better off to burn it and start from scratch than to try to fix it. It was the most […]

Flat-Fee Pricing: Contract Review Service

flat fee contract review

The construction industry is known for its complex legal landscape. From project delays to payment disputes, there are many legal issues that contractors must navigate to ensure the success of their business. A well-drafted contract is one of the most important tools in a contractor’s legal arsenal. A solid contract can protect a contractor’s interests […]