Construction contract disputes can pose significant challenges for business owners in Florida. These disputes often arise from disagreements over contract terms, delays in project timelines, or issues with the quality of work and can take years to resolve. In a recent example, Walt Disney World has taken on a construction company for an alleged breach. The case continues to move forward after four years of litigation.
Construction business owners are wise to understand the basics of the legal landscape and adopt proactive strategies to mitigate the potential risk of a lengthy legal battle.
What are the common causes of construction contract disputes?
Several factors can lead to contract disputes in the construction industry, including:
- Ambiguities in contract language
- Non-compliance with contract terms
- Delays in project completion
- Disputes over payment
Recognizing these common issues can help business owners anticipate potential problems and take steps to avoid them.
How can I protect my business?
Construction business owners can implement clear, proactive measures to help reduce the risk of a dispute. Helpful strategies can include:
- Clear and comprehensive contracts: Ensure all contracts are clear, detailed, and tailored to each project. Include clear definitions, scope of work, payment terms, and timelines.
- Regular communication: Regular updates can prevent misunderstandings and help ensure all parties remain aligned.
These strategies form the foundation for minimizing the risk of disputes. They help to better ensure all parties have a clear understanding of their roles, responsibilities, and expectations.
Unfortunately, even business’ who implement these proactive measures may find themselves facing a contract dispute. In these cases, it is important to review the terms of the contract to determine who is in breach and consider moving forward with negotiations or more aggressive legal action as necessary to protect your business interests.