Construction Law Lawyer
At Hoegen & Associates, P.C., we have an excellent track record advocating for our construction clients in Wilkes-Barre, PA, and surrounding areas. Our attorneys have the knowledge and experience to handle the complexities that are often at play in practicing construction law.
We Represent Construction Professionals 
Whether it is new construction, a remodel, or an addition, any construction project is costly. However, missed deadlines, contract breaches, and defects can increase the cost even further. If your company is facing those unnecessary costs, the experienced construction law lawyers at Hoegen & Associates, P.C. can represent your interests.
Construction Contracts
A contract is the baseline of any construction project and establishes the relationship between project owner and contractor. Failure to adhere to the contract can result in a dispute that slows project progression and increases costs. All parties should closely read the contract, especially sections outlining the dispute process, and any questions about the contract should be discussed and adjustments made as necessary.
If a dispute arises, the contract’s dispute process may state that the first step is to try to resolve the issue in a private manner. If this is not possible, a third party can evaluate the problem and recommend a solution. Litigation should be the last resort, because it can delay the project.
Our attorneys can help structure contracts and provide insight as to how the contract might be interpreted in court. In addition, we can provide guidance in responding to issues of missed deadlines and low-quality work, as well as in handling disputes.
Mechanic’s Lien
A mechanic’s lien can be placed on a property if the general contractor has not properly paid the supplier or subcontractor involved in the project. The supplier or subcontractor is then able to make a legal claim against the property. If you are a property owner facing a mechanic’s lien, or a subcontractor or supplier filing the lien, our attorneys will help you achieve favorable, fair results by representing your best interests.
Quarry Sales & PUC
Energy companies, including Shell and Darco Energy, are seeking to capitalize on the immense natural gas potential in the Quarry Sales & PUC formation. They are purchasing mineral rights from property owners, as well as demanding natural resources such as sand and stone for hydraulic fracturing and construction purposes.
This is a complex project, and no matter the role you pay in the Quarry Sales & PUC development, whether you own property in the area or are an energy company, you need experienced construction attorneys who can protect your rights and best interests. We are heavily involved in the Quarry Sales & PUC project and look forward to ensuring you are receiving fair compensation.
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"Attorney Hoegen is extremely professional and his business knowledge and experience have helped our business entities tremendously! We have used Atty Hoegen for all aspects of many different business ventures and he has made it all a comforting experience!"
William Balchune, Lake Scranton Urgent Care & Balchune Construction
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Construction Law FAQs
The Quarry Sales & PUC Shale formation in Pennsylvania offers large stores of natural gases that energy companies are striving to capitalize on. If you’re a property owner in this area, you can choose to retain rights over the minerals on your property, meaning you can exploit those minerals, or you can sell your mineral rights for profit. If you are planning to sell your land, mineral rights are usually transferred over with the sale of the title. However, you can also retain ownership of your land and sell your mineral rights by severing the mineral rights from your property title.
By retaining ownership of your property and severing your mineral rights, you can gain a significant tax benefit. Interested in more details? Our attorneys can help you navigate your mineral rights and help you make the best decision for your unique situation and goals.
Do I Have to Hire a Licensed Contractor for My Construction Project?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions about construction law. Some people may decide to work with an unlicensed contractor to save money on their construction project. However, this can backfire. For one thing, unlicensed contractors may not be able to receive a building permit. Additionally, construction completed by an unlicensed contractor might not pass inspection or receive a certificate of occupancy. That’s why it’s essential to make sure that a contractor is licensed before hiring home or her.
Is an Oral Contract Valid?
Sometimes people may decide to enter into oral contracts with their contractors. While an oral contract may be valid in some jurisdictions, it’s usually not in your best interest to get into one. An oral contract isn’t clear cut as a written one. Therefore, there may be more misunderstandings that can lead to problems. To protect yourself, take the time to draft a written contract.
What Is a Building Code?
A building code is a law that establishes minimum standards that have to be met for building design, construction, location and quality. There are also other codes for electrical, plumbing and fire safety.
What Should I Do If a Zoning or Land Use Issue Gets in the Way of My Construction Project?
If you find out in the middle of your construction project that there is a zoning or land use issue, you may feel very frustrated and unsure of what to do. In this situation, it’s important to consult a lawyer who specializes in construction law. He or she may help you file for a zoning variance.
How Do You Prepare for a Construction Project?
A new construction can be quite exciting. However, to ensure success and minimize issues, it’s important to prepare properly for it. First and foremost, you must establish payment terms that are clear and limitations of liability to protect yourself. You also should consider dispute resolution, warranty pass-throughs and other legal requirements.
Can a Contractor Charge Me More than the Original Estimate?
When you first consult a contractor about your construction project, he or she will estimate how much the entire project will cost. However, you must remember that it’s just an estimate. If certain issues come up during the project that require more work or supplies, your contractor may end up charging more than the original estimate. Although this may be disheartening, it is legal.
How Is a Building Inspection Different from a Home Inspection?
Some people get buildings and inspections and home inspections confused, but they are very different things. During a building inspection, an inspector will assess a building project to make sure that it complies with local building codes. As a construction law attorney can explain, a certificate of occupancy may sometimes only be given if the house passes the final building inspection.
However, home inspectors inspect an existing home before it is purchased. These inspectors don’t certify if a home follows building codes.
Why You Should Hire a Construction Law Lawyer
If you’re dealing with a legal issue involving a construction project, a Wilkes-Barre construction law lawyer can guide you through every stage of the process. The legal professionals at Hoegen & Associates, P.C. are experienced in managing complex construction matters and protecting clients’ interests. Here are the key areas where a construction law lawyer can help:
Definition and Scope
A construction law lawyer focuses on the legal aspects of the construction industry, including contracts, disputes, and compliance with laws and regulations that affect every phase of a project.
Extensive Legal Knowledge
These attorneys possess deep knowledge of construction statutes, case law, and industry regulations. They understand how to navigate the intricate relationships between property owners, contractors, and subcontractors.
Contract Negotiation and Review
A skilled lawyer drafts and reviews construction contracts to ensure they reflect each party’s intentions, comply with the law, and minimize potential disputes.
Dispute Resolution
When conflicts arise, construction law lawyers handle them through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation, always working to achieve the most favorable outcome.
Regulatory Guidance
They help clients comply with federal, state, and local building regulations, avoiding fines and costly project delays.
Licensing and Permitting
These attorneys assist with securing required licenses and permits and resolving issues that might arise during the permitting process.
Construction Defects
When problems such as design flaws or poor workmanship occur, a Wilkes-Barre construction law lawyer represents owners, contractors, and subcontractors in defect claims.
Payment and Billing Disputes
They handle cases involving non-payment or delayed payments and ensure clients are compensated for their work or materials.
Mechanic’s Liens
Construction law lawyers help clients file, enforce, or defend against mechanic’s liens to safeguard their financial rights.
Insurance and Risk Management
They provide counsel on insurance coverage, claims handling, and liability protection to mitigate risks on construction projects.
Bond Claims
Attorneys assist with performance and payment bond issues, from filing claims to negotiating settlements.
Delay Claims
They evaluate project delays, determine responsibility, and pursue remedies for financial losses caused by interruptions.
Environmental Compliance
Construction projects must meet environmental standards. Lawyers ensure compliance and help address any related disputes or violations.
Public Procurement
For government contracts, they guide clients through the strict rules and procedures governing public construction bids.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
When appropriate, construction law lawyers use mediation and arbitration to resolve issues quickly and cost-effectively outside the courtroom.
If you have questions about a construction project or dispute, contact a Wilkes-Barre construction law lawyer at Hoegen & Associates, P.C. today to discuss your legal options.
Hoegen & Associates, P.C. Construction Law Lawyer
152 S Franklin St #2, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701
Contact Our Construction Law Lawyer Today
For more information about our construction law services, or to schedule a free initial consultation, contact us today at 570-820-3332. We look forward to working with you!
Hoegen & Associates, P.C.
Hours:
Monday – Friday
8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Fax: 570-820-3262
The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.