Towson Construction Dispute Lawyers

Attorneys for Litigation Related to Construction and Development Projects in Towson, MD

Towson is one of the most active centers of commercial and residential real estate development in the greater Baltimore area. During development projects, construction contracts will define each party's obligations, the deadlines for completion of work, and the steps that may be taken to address problems that may arise. Disputes related to contracts, construction work, or other issues that may affect the timeline, costs, and outcome of the project. At Fox & Moghul, our attorneys provide representation for property owners, developers, contractors, or other parties involved in construction and real estate development disputes.

Disagreements over defective work, unpaid invoices, or the fulfillment of a contract's terms can cost a great deal of time and money. Our lawyers help clients cut through the complexity of these situations by carefully analyzing contracts and presenting a clear picture of the options for dispute resolution that may be available. We have the litigation experience needed to resolve these issues while protecting our clients' rights.

Real Estate Development and Construction Disputes

During real estate development projects, owners may contract with developers and general contractors. General contractors may engage subcontractors, and they may purchase materials from suppliers. Design professionals such as architects may have their own contracts with developers. Each of these relationships may serve as a potential source of conflict, and disputes could affect everyone involved in a project.

Disputes Between Owners and Contractors

Owners expect contractors to perform the work described in the contract. Work should be completed on time and within budget while meeting the expected standards of quality. When a contractor falls short of those expectations, the owner may withhold payment, take legal action to address the damages that have occurred, or terminate the contract. Contractors may need to determine what to do when owners withhold payment without legitimate reasons, or they may need to address changes to the scope of a project.

Disputes Involving Subcontractors and Suppliers

Subcontractors and materials suppliers often may be caught in the middle of disputes between owners and general contractors. A subcontractor who has performed work properly may not be paid until a general contractor resolves a dispute with the owner. A supplier who delivered materials on time and in full may have payments delayed or refused.

In these situations, subcontractors and suppliers may file mechanic's liens to collect the payments they are owed. Prompt action is crucial in these cases, as the deadlines for filing liens are strict. Our attorneys can assist with filing liens when necessary, and we can also help property owners defend against liens.

Design Professional Disputes

Disputes involving architects and engineers may also arise during a project. When a design professional produces plans or specifications that contain errors, fails to ensure that designs meet building code requirements, or makes other errors, this can lead to problems that may affect the entire project. Construction may need to stop while design issues are resolved. Completed work may need to be demolished and rebuilt. An owner or developer will need to determine who may be held responsible for the additional costs required because of these issues.

Disputes Arising After a Project's Completion

While some construction disputes may arise while a project is ongoing, others may involve latent defects, or problems that are not obvious at the time of the project's completion. Issues may emerge over time, such as foundation settlement, water infiltration, roofing problems, or mechanical or electrical systems that do not function correctly. These issues can cause serious damage months or years after construction has been completed.

While the statute of limitations for contract claims in Maryland is generally three years, there are some situations where additional time may be provided to file claims based on problems that were discovered later. Our lawyers can advise clients on when claims may be filed and what steps may be taken to address defects that have been uncovered.

Contact Our Towson, Maryland Construction Dispute Attorneys

A breach of contract in a construction or real estate development project can have serious consequences for everyone involved. At Fox & Moghul, our attorneys can help clients determine what steps to take to address contract violations or other disputes related to construction projects. We know how to protect our clients' rights, and we can help ensure that these issues will be resolved effectively. Contact our Towson construction contract litigation lawyers at 301-409-5316 and set up a consultation today.