What Are the Most Common Reasons for Construction Disputes?

Southern California construction disputes attorneys at Brown & Charbonneau, LLP can provide representation to developers, contractors, subcontractors, property owners and others who are involved in a conflict that arises from a residential or a commercial construction project. Both new construction and remodeling projects often involve substantial amounts of money. Unfortunately, the large amounts of funds typically involved in construction projects coupled with the complexity of both new builds and remodeling work make disputes common in construction projects.

Brown & Charbonneau, LLP is here to help. We work with clients to reduce the chances that a dispute will arise and we help those who are involved in conflicts to resolve them in an effective way that is protective of their rights. We can facilitate the resolution of construction disputes both in court and during arbitration or settlement negotiations. We know California’s construction laws and the laws applicable to contract disputes that arise in connection with construction agreements and we will provide the advice and advocacy you need to make smart choices to resolve your conflicts. To find out more about how an Irvine construction disputes attorney at our firm can help you, give us a call today.

Common Construction Disputes

Construction disputes can arise for a wide variety of different reasons. However, there are some especially common conflicts that arise when construction projects are ongoing. Some of the most common causes of construction disputes include the following:

• Conflict over the quality of construction: While a detailed contract should be created that explains exactly what the construction project will involve, it is common for conflict to arise regarding whether a contractor provided an appropriate standard of workmanship. When property owners and developers feel that a contractor or subcontractor provided substandard work, this can result in a lawsuit against those who completed the objectionable work. If a customer refuses to pay for work that the client believes is substandard, this can result in the contractor filing suit.
• Conflict over materials used: This is a related source of conflict to disputes over construction quality. A detailed construction contract can help to minimize the risk of this type of conflict arising. However, if a contractor fails to use materials specified in a contract and substitutes in a lower quality material or any material not acceptable to the property owner, this can create conflict.
• Conflict over timelines and delays in construction. Construction work frequently tends to take much longer than anticipated. If a contractor or subcontractor does not perform work by agreed-upon deadlines that are contained in the contract, this can result in litigation. Even if there are no specific deadlines in a construction contract, work should still be completed in an efficient and timely fashion.
• Conflict over abandonment of a construction project: There are circumstances where a property owner will feel that a contractor has abandoned the project before completion. Often, this leaves a property owner suing to recover funds paid for incomplete work and left in a situation where significant additional funds must be paid for work to be completed as specified.
• Conflict over nonpayment: There are also many circumstances where a contractor or subcontractor will complete satisfactory work using appropriate materials and the property owner who contracted for the work will not pay as promised. Under these circumstances, contractors can take legal action for nonpayment. Mechanics’ liens could also be a possible way for contractors to force a property owner to pay, as a contractor could place a lien on the property owner’s property until the unpaid sums have been paid in full.

These are just a few of many potential sources of conflict that arise when construction projects are being undertaken. It is vitally important to have a detailed construction contract in place before beginning residential or commercial construction. It is also important to ensure that you talk with an Irvine construction disputes attorney as soon as you believe a problem has arisen so your attorney can help you to take appropriate action.

Getting Help from California Construction Disputes Attorney

California construction disputes attorney at Brown & Charbonneau, LLP will represent property owners, contractors, subcontractors, developers and others involved in the construction trade when a conflict arises with any construction project. We can help you to find the most effective methods of resolving the conflicts that have arisen so you can save money and get your problems solved as quickly as possible. To find out more about the ways in which our legal team can assist you with all of the issues that arise during construction, give us a call at 866-237-8129 or contact us online today.