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.