Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Steps to File a Bond Claim for a Florida Construction Project
It is public policy in Florida that private contractors cannot have a security interest in public lands, which is why construction liens are not available for government projects. Instead, contractors obtain a payment or performance bond from a surety to secure their interests in getting paid for work or materials. Florida’s statute on obtaining… Read More »
New Law Means Changes are on the Way for Construction Liens in Florida
Laws are constantly changing, being updated, and amended, and frequently there are bills passed by lawmakers that directly affect Florida construction contractors. A Florida bill (HB 331) on construction liens and bonds passed both legislatures and was signed into law on June 12, 2023, by the governor. The measure includes numerous provisions on notices,… Read More »
What to Expect with Construction Litigation in Florida
If you are involved in a Florida construction law dispute and have not been able to resolve it through out-of-court methods, you could be looking at a lawsuit. The most common causes of disputes in construction include poorly drafted contracts, errors and omissions in the specification documents, and a party failing to comply with… Read More »
What are the Penalties for Assault Charges in Florida?
Assault is a serious crime in Florida, so it is not surprising to learn that law enforcement is aggressive in pursuing offenders. According to statistics reported by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), police make around 98,900 arrests for simple and aggravated assault every year. If the prosecutor can prove that a defendant… Read More »
Factors to Consider Before Filing a Bid Protest in Florida
When you have submitted a responsible, responsive bid for a public construction project in Florida, it is frustrating to learn that the agency will award the contract to another bidder. However, beyond your frustration, it may be against the law for a government body to go with another bid. There are specific requirements for… Read More »
Cost-Plus Contracts in Florida Construction Projects
Florida construction contractors know that business has been booming in recent years, and the trends look to continue according to industry experts. Statistics indicate that up to 60 percent of construction company executives forecast expansion throughout 2023. By 2024, new construction is predicted to reach $1.23 trillion. To ensure you get your piece of… Read More »
Tips for Hiring Subcontractors for Florida Construction Projects
Based upon the way licensing works in Florida construction and the skilled tradesmen that work on these projects, general contractors will work with numerous subcontractors to complete the job. Under regulations established by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), a Division I license is for general, building, and residential contractors. A… Read More »
FAQs About Chapter 558 Under Florida’s Construction Defects Statute
The Florida new construction industry has been in a boom in recent years, and contractors strive to keep up with demand as the trend continues. However, the uptick in projects has also opened the door to disputes over defective construction, including design errors, poor workmanship, and violations of building codes. Chapter 558 of Florida’s… Read More »
What is the Difference Between Theft and Robbery?
Terms like theft, larceny, shoplifting, and robbery all refer to the crime of taking something that does not belong to you, but they are very different if you look at the specific definitions. Many people lump them together, which creates confusion when comparing theft and robbery. Florida’s theft laws provide for two distinct offenses,… Read More »
Important Facts About Lien Priorities in Florida Construction
Construction liens are an essential tool for Florida contractors and suppliers to get paid, and there are numerous requirements you must meet to secure and enforce your interest. However, going through the steps for a construction lien is not necessarily a guarantee of payment. Under the Florida statute on priority of liens, there are… Read More »