Bridgeport Construction Dispute Lawyers

Construction Dispute Law in Connecticut

When a property owner and a general contractor contract for a construction project to take place on some property in Bridgeport, Connecticut, whether it's a house, some landscaping, or a remodeling project, there is always a chance that something can go wrong. In fact, at least a very minor setback may be more likely than not.

Most often, the owners of land and contractors can end disagreements before they get too serious, thus eliminating the need for litigation. Most contracts governing construction projects have built-in remedies for the most common problems, usually requiring the party that causes a delay or other problem to pay the other party a set fee.

And even if disputes can't be resolved so easily, the courts still don't necessarily have to get involved. For example, a construction contract may require mediation before any further action is taken. Mediation is a process by which a third party tries to guide the parties to the dispute to a settlement. The mediator cannot, however, render any binding decision. Another avenue is arbitration. This is where the parties go to a private arbitration service, which can render a binding judgment (generally enforceable through contract law, as the parties agree in advance to abide by the arbitrator's decision). Arbitration has benefits over litigation, as the parties can have a say in choosing the arbitrator (allowing them to have their case arbitrated by an expert on construction disputes, for example).

Litigation of a Bridgeport, Connecticut construction dispute is never something that anyone wants to do. Nonetheless, there are sometimes no other avenues.

Examples of Construction Disputes That Might Lead to Litigation in Bridgeport, Connecticut

Construction Delays: Delays in construction are common sticking points between contractors and landowners. These delays can sometimes lead to litigation, especially if the construction contract makes it clear that time is an important factor, or if the contract mandates a certain completion date. In such situations, a court will often award the landowner compensation for any monetary losses he or she suffered as a result of the delay.

Owner's Refusal to Pay: If the contractor completes the project, and the owner refuses to pay the agreed-upon price, the contractor will usually file a lawsuit to recover what is owed. Of course, the owner will usually claim that there is a good reason for not paying, arguing that the contractor didn't conform to the project's specifications, or that the quality of construction was unacceptably poor. In such a case, the court will have to decide if the contractor actually breached the contract by doing shoddy work, which could, at least in part, excuse the owner's duty to pay.

Subcontractors: Subcontractors are hired by general contractors to assist them in large construction projects, usually specialized tasks like installing plumbing. Nonetheless, no matter how much of the work is performed by subcontractors, the general contractor (the one that the client actually hired to do the project) is liable to the landowner as if it were doing all the work itself. This essentially means that, if a subcontractor messes up, the general contractor is the one who gets sued. But all is not lost in such a situation. If the general contractor has to compensate the owner because of the mistakes of a subcontractor, it can sue the subcontractor for whatever it had to pay to the landowner.

Mechanic's Liens: If the contractor sues a land owner and wins, he will likely obtain a monetary judgment. If the owner declines to pay, the contractor needs some way to recover. This is where the mechanic's lien comes into play. It allows a contractor to force the sale of the land or other real property that he just worked on, and use those proceeds to cover costs.

Can a Bridgeport, Connecticut Attorney Help?

If you have a construction dispute, you should first try to resolve it amicably with the other party. If this fails, it is almost always crucial to hire a Bridgeport, Connecticut construction disputes attorney, who can advise you on the next steps in the process.

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Life in Bridgeport

Bridgeport, Connecticut is located on the Long Island Sound and has a growing population of nearly 145,000 people. It was incorporated as a city in 1836. As a harbor city, Bridgeport, Connecticut was initially focused on the shipbuilding industry. Today it is an ideal location for business, retail, and economic development.

Bridgeport is known for being a city of "firsts". For example, it is often called the "birthplace of the Frisbee" and is home to the first Subway Restaurant. Its unique location still contributes to the growth and prosperity of the city. Bridgeport's downtown area is an excellent spot for fine dining, sports events, and theater acts, particularly at the Arena at Harboryard.

In addition, Bridgeport, Connecticut hosts a number of annual culture events. Residents and tourists enjoy visiting such attractions as the Housatonic Museum of Art, and Captain's Cove Seaport. The city's atmosphere still reflects its history as a major harbor and port center.

Lawyers in Bridgeport, Connecticut offer services in a broad range of legal fields. Many Bridgepoint lawyers belong to legal organizations such as the Greater Bridgeport Bar Association.

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Bridgeport Construction Dispute Lawyers

Construction Dispute Law in Connecticut

Examples of Construction Disputes That Might Lead to Litigation in Bridgeport, Connecticut