Florida Litigation Blog

Construction Law

Enhancing Your Contract with Change Order Clause

   Construction in Florida is always constant. If you are a contractor, you know that when it comes to a new project, things are always happening and changing. Whether that be due to you client c hanging their minds, or delays in materials. That is why it is important to have change orders provisions in contracting contracts and understanding why they are important.  WHAT ARE CHANGE ORDERS?  First, we must learn what a change order is. Under Section 713.01(11) of

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Construction Law

THE IMPORTANCE OF A CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY

Are you currently managing a residential or commercial construction project? Excited about its completion? One of the most important milestones in any construction project is securing a certificate of occupancy (CO). Before a project is considered complete, obtaining this document is essential. Certificates of occupancy fall under Section 553.791 of the Florida Statutes. WHAT IS A CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY? A certificate of occupancy is a legal document confirming that a construction project complies with local building codes. It serves as

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Construction Law

Why Notice of Commencement is Crucial

As a contractor or construction professional, ensuring legal compliance is essential for starting and completing any project successfully. One of the most critical steps in Florida is filing a Notice of Commencement (NOC), a required document that safeguards your rights, clarifies responsibilities, and helps projects run smoothly. Understanding the importance of this document and ensuring it is correctly prepared can save you from costly disputes and legal issues down the line. In Florida, contractors must record a Notice of Commencement

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Construction Law

BUILDING PERMITS IN HOME RENOVATIONS: A COMPLETE GUIDE

Having thoughts about or planning to renovate your home? Whether you’re planning a small upgrade or a major overhaul, understanding the role of building permits is crucial for a successful renovation project. In this guide we will go over the role building permits have in home renovations. WHAT IS A BUILDING PERMIT? A building permit is an authorization for “any person, firm, corporation, or governmental entity to construct, erect, alter, modify, repair, or demolish any building within this state.” Florida

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Construction Law

Mechanic’s Liens in Florida

Are you a property owner or contractor in Florida? If so, it’s essential that you understand the importance of a mechanics lien. According to Section 713.001-713.37 of the Florida Statutes a mechanics lien sometimes called a “construction lien” is a legal claim on a home or property by a contractor or another who has provided labor or materials to the property and has not been paid.  In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into what mechanic’s liens are, how they work,

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Business Law

Construction Contracts: Key Clauses you Need to Know

Are you a Florida Contractor? It is important to know that a construction contract is one of the most critical parts. A construction contract ensures that you and your clients create terms and conditions that both parties are satisfied with and that will be followed. These contracts are meant to protect both you and your clients. Florida Statute 489.101-489.147 covers construction contracting. A well-drafted contract establishes the key terms and expectations to be followed by both parties. It also provides

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Business Law

Business Impact of the FTC Non-Compete Ruling

Are you a Florida business owner? Are you protecting your business by ensuring your employees sign a noncompete agreement? If so, a new ruling by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) will affect all noncompete agreements nationwide. What is a non-compete agreement? A non-compete agreement is a legal contract between an employer and employee that limits the employee from engaging in conduct that would increase competition for the employer or other party for a specific amount of time. In Florida noncompete

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Insurance Law

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Roofing Claims?

It’s no secret that the sunshine state experiences a vast amount of tropical storms, hurricanes, and windstorms. These harsh weather conditions have the potential to wreak havoc on your property. In fact, Florida accounts for nearly 76% of property insurance litigation in the U.S due to weather-related property damage. One of the most common sources of property damage after a storm is high winds, rain, and hail, these conditions can rip the shingles right off your roof, so it’s crucial

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Estate Planning

Estate Planning: What Is It & Do I Need It?

What Is Estate Planning? It is important to realize, Estate Planning is much more than a set of legal documents. Estate Planning centers on taking time to make decisions for you and your family, while you still can. While most people understand that Estate Planning is important, it often takes a backseat to life’s everyday demands. There are countless causes for this delay, but, in my experience, the primary reason why most people neglect their Estate Planning needs is because

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