Many construction contracts require the contractor to obtain a signed change order before performing work that deviates from the original contract scope. But in practice, contractors are often faced with the dilemma of...more
Under HB 4006, which was effective on March 7, 2024, the Oregon legislature sought to improve retainage law in two ways. First, it allows general contractors and subcontractors to post a retainage surety bond to avoid having...more
Under Washington common law, property owners owe a duty of reasonable care to “invitees” (essentially, persons invited onto the land by the owner), which requires owners to inspect for dangerous conditions and to make such...more
A recent unpublished opinion from the Washington Court of Appeals serves as a good reminder that contractors should carefully review their contract terms, especially when it becomes clear that there will be additional...more
In a February 15, 2023 decision in Twigg v. Admiral Insurance Company, the Oregon Court of Appeals held that an insurance company was not required to indemnify its insured based on a claim for breach of a repair agreement...more
At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain challenges caused production and transportation delays, as well as price increases, for construction materials. At that time, many contractors looked to include...more
Over the years, smart home technology has improved, expanded, and become more reasonably priced. As a result, homeowners are increasingly including it in their construction plans. While the conveniences of smart home...more
In September 2021, the Washington Supreme Court issued its decision in Lake Hills Investments, LLC v. Rushforth Construction Co., Inc., 198 Wash.2d 209 (2021). This case is significant because it establishes a comparative...more