For any owner or developer of a private construction project—and especially those looking to refinance or sell the property—lien claims can pose serious challenges as well as being a source of great frustration. In my latest column for the Daily Journal of Commerce, I outline some legal options for a Washington construction project owner caught … Continue Reading
In its March 11, 2021 opinion, Division Three of the Washington Court of Appeals considered whether the 90-day period to record a claim of lien is extended by a contractor performing work after substantial completion to correct nonconforming work – usually referred to as “warranty work.” In the case of Brashear Electric, Inc. v. Norcal … Continue Reading
Among the many effects on the U.S. economy of the COVID-19 pandemic, construction projects that started before it began but were halted in its aftermath may be slow to resume or be abandoned altogether thanks to funding issues. Contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers feel immense pressure to protect and preserve their rights to payment for work … Continue Reading
Lurking in the depths of the Contractor Registration Act (Chapter 18.27 RCW) is an important statute that has the potential to eviscerate lien rights if not satisfied by contractors furnishing improvements on certain projects in Washington. RCW 18.27.114 requires that contractors working on residential projects or commercial projects of limited scope furnish a Model Disclosure … Continue Reading
