An Experienced Construction Law Attorney Serving The Florida Panhandle
Even with recent downturns in commercial construction, real estate development in northwest Florida is always a topic of discussion and interest. As business development ramps up and the market continues to increase in complexity, professionals with a stake in construction law increasingly turn to experienced legal professionals to gain valuable advice and ensure their interests are protected.
Daniel W. Uhlfelder, P.A., has handled numerous and varied construction-related cases, many of which have involved extremely complex issues with a multitude of defendants and scores of construction defects. At our law firm, we understand that problems at a construction site can trigger disputes, delays and other legal concerns that may jeopardize a business’s investment in a construction project. To discuss your own construction law concerns during a free initial consultation, call our office in Santa Rosa Beach at 850-909-2225 or reach out online.
Construction Defects And Their Impact
Construction defects are design, craftsmanship or material flaws that can lead to failures, damages or safety hazards. Common defects include structural issues, water intrusion and electrical problems. These often result from poor planning, substandard materials or negligence during construction.
When discovered post-completion, defects can be costly – a good reason to act quickly as per the state laws. Our attorney has extensive experience identifying these defects and pursuing appropriate legal action against responsible parties. As such, we can work diligently to help ensure your claims are filed within these legal timeframes, protecting your rights to compensation.
Construction Delays And Costs
When a project is delayed, it is not just an inconvenience – it can cost you real money. The 2023 State of Residential Construction Industry Report revealed that 35.1% of residential projects faced delays in 2022 due to weather, staffing shortages and supply chain issues. For a $750,000 build, each day of delay costs approximately $670, meaning a week’s delay can result in thousands of dollars in unexpected expenses.
An overview of the common defects and their costs data shows:
- Foundation issues: $5,000 to $100,000+
- Roof defects: $5,000 to $50,000
- Electrical problems: $10,000 to $30,000
- Plumbing defects: $1,000 to $15,000+
- HVAC system failures: $5,000 to $20,000
Evaluating costs involves considering both direct (repair materials and labor) and indirect expenses (temporary relocation, loss of use). Courts often consider these “actual damages,” potentially holding the responsible party liable for full payment. Our lawyer can employ a comprehensive legal approach to evaluate construction damages.
Turn To Us For Comprehensive Construction Law Services And Representation
Our firm provides sound legal advice and tenacious legal representation to property owners, builders, contractors, developers, realtors and other businesses throughout the areas of Santa Rosa Beach and Destin. We also provide counsel to homeowner associations (HOAs) and condo associations. We are ready to assist you with construction law matters such as:
- Obtaining permits and licenses
- Drafting or negotiating contracts
- Land use issues
- Litigated construction disputes
- Contractor negligence
- Failure to complete construction
- Construction lien law
- Litigated real estate disputes
Whether it is reviewing a contract, obtaining or lifting a mechanic’s lien, or legal representation in a breach of contract involving financing or contractor employment and other disputes, our attorney offers sound legal advice and effective strategies to resolve matters quickly and efficiently.
Effective preparation and enforcement of contracts are critical to the successful completion of a construction project – particularly high-value projects like multi-unit construction and commercial buildings. Before construction starts, we can begin looking out for your interests and establishing safeguards to help ensure your rights are never compromised, especially if problems arise and litigation becomes necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Construction Laws
We answer the most asked questions to guide you through any legal complications that may arise.
What is a construction lien?
This is a legal claim against a property by unpaid contractors, subcontractors or suppliers for work or materials provided.
Do Florida contractors need insurance?
Yes, licensed contractors in Florida must carry general liability and workers’ compensation insurance or an exemption certificate.
When can a property owner cancel a construction project?
Florida law provides a three-day “cooling-off period” for contracts signed outside the contractor’s place of business. During this period, a property owner can cancel the construction contract.
How long do I have to file a construction defect claim?
In Florida, property owners have up to four years from defect discovery to file a claim, with a ten-year limit from construction completion.
Get Advice Tailored Specifically For Your Case
When you need legal advice or representation concerning a construction or property development matter in the Florida Panhandle, Daniel W. Uhlfelder, P.A., is ready to help. Contact us by email or call 850-909-2225 for reliable and thorough assistance from an experienced construction lawyer.