New York recently widened the remit of its prevailing wage labor laws, to include even more building projects. Not everyone agrees this is a good idea as it will increase construction costs. However, the law has been passed, so you need to be aware of how it will affect your business. How has the...

New York law provides special protections to contractors to ensure that they get paid – mechanic's lien rights, trust fund rights, and prompt payment rights. New York's Prompt Pay Act (“PPA”) is covered under General Business Law § 756 et. seq. The PPA's stated purpose: It is the policy and purpo...

During a construction dispute, emotions can run high and multiple stressors may arise.  Unfortunately, when disputes become overly heated and tensions flare between parties, the likelihood of securing a favorable outcome through compromise and conciliation decreases.  Not to mention, construction...

Arbitration is a form of “alternative dispute resolution” (ADR).  It is an “alternative” to the public court system.  Instead of a publicly appointed judge or jury deciding your case, arbitration is where the parties agree to have a mutually agreed upon private arbitrator hear the evidence and ma...

As a home improvement contractor, you enjoy taking on a variety of projects. From a kitchen remodel one day to an addition the next, there's always something fresh and exciting on your schedule. However, you don't want to become so consumed in your projects that you overlook the risks of working ...

When a dispute arises involving construction claims or any contract dispute, those involved will wonder how they can resolve the issue.  Disputes get resolved through settlement or through a binding decision-making process.  Mediation involves a mediator who tries to facilitate a compromise settl...

If you own a construction business, project issues can significantly impact your bottom line, increasing costs, extending schedules, and decreasing productivity.  If another party has caused these issues, you may be able to seek legal remedies such as compensation and additional contract time. Di...

Every time you start a new construction job, whether you are a contractor, subcontractor, supplier or some other link in the chain, you open yourself up to disputes. However, even though disputes may be inevitable, litigation is not. Here are some ways you can avoid lawsuits and strengthen your c...

Court litigation in New York can be expensive and time-consuming. That is why more individuals and companies are choosing alternative dispute resolution (ADR) when they need to settle a dispute.  Not only is ADR less expensive and timelier, but it also allows both parties to collaborate and under...

Disputes erupt between New York business owners for many different reasons. What can you do when a dispute arises? One option, if the parties are amenable by mutual agreement, it to try mediation.  Mediation involves a formal face to face meeting between the parties with a professional mediator. ...