Construction defects, contractor disputes, and payment claims.
Construction lawsuits cover disputes between owners, contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and design professionals — including defective work, unfinished projects, payment disputes, mechanic's liens, schedule delays, and damage claims.
Construction defect claims.
Construction defect claims involve allegations that a building, addition, or improvement was not built properly — covering design defects, material defects, workmanship defects, and code violations. Common issues include water intrusion, structural deficiencies, foundation problems, roofing failures, and failed waterproofing.
Many states require pre-suit notice and an opportunity to repair before a lawsuit can proceed. Statutes of repose — separate from typical statutes of limitation — often set outer time limits measured from the date of substantial completion, regardless of when defects are discovered.
Payment disputes and mechanic's liens.
Contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers who are not paid for work or materials may have rights under state mechanic's lien laws to file a lien against the property. Lien rights have strict deadlines and procedural requirements that vary significantly by state — missing a deadline can permanently waive lien rights.
Owners may have related defenses, including claims about the quality of the work, scope of the contract, or the lien claimant's failure to follow notice requirements. Bond claims may also be available on public projects or where a payment bond was posted.
Delays and contract disputes.
Construction contracts often involve detailed schedules, change order procedures, and risk allocation. Disputes can arise over delay damages, no-damages-for-delay clauses, force majeure events, change orders, scope creep, differing site conditions, and termination.
Many construction contracts require mediation or arbitration before litigation. Some industries — particularly public works — have specialized procedures, bonding requirements, and prompt-payment statutes that significantly affect dispute resolution.