As construction claim lawyers, we are always on the lookout for insurance policies or “bonds” that might satisfy our client’s claim. On federal projects, this includes performance and payment bonds known as Miller Act bonds....more
In Swinerton Builders, Inc. v. Argonaut Insurance Co., Swinerton Builders, a contractor, sued a surety on bond claims arising from defaults by its subcontractor on a series of work orders. The owner of Swinerton’s mechanical...more
An owner hired a contractor to make improvements on real property, but the contractor failed to pay its subcontractors or suppliers. What happens next? Under Michigan’s Construction Lien Act, contractors, subcontractors,...more
Governor Landry recently signed into law two legislative acts that should allow Private Works Act and Public Works Act payment bond sureties to rely on defenses available to their general contractor principals in defense of...more
Bridges, Natural Disasters and Liability - The Skanska Decision (Part 2) - In the last edition of The Site Report, we discussed the legal issues surrounding the damage caused by Skanska's construction barges to the new...more
A construction project can be a breeding ground for general contractor versus subcontractor payment disputes. Whether it is payment for extra work subject to the project owner’s approval, slow pay or no pay by the project...more
Whether you are the owner or the general contractor, dealing with mechanic’s liens filed by subcontractors or suppliers can be frustrating and, in some cases, present the very real threat of having to pay twice for work or...more