Construction Lawyers – Locally Trusted Law Firm


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Construction Lawyers – Locally Trusted Law Firm

Construction is inherently risky, but at LCW Lawyers, our experienced construction lawyers in St. Catharines are here to help you navigate those risks. With extensive expertise in construction law, we guide clients through every stage of their projects, from procurement and contract negotiations to project completion, ensuring your interests are protected at each step.

Our Construction Lawyers provide complete advisory and litigation services for property owners, design professionals, suppliers of building components, products and materials, construction managers, contractors and subcontractors beginning with the bidding process through the solving of disputes by way of trial or alternative dispute resolution processes such as mediation and arbitration.

Members of our Construction Law Practice Group represent numerous construction companies and specialize in the drafting of construction contracts, lien registrations and litigation of disputes arising from liens, bond claims and all other construction-related claims. The claims handled by our lawyers are often lien and fee disputes, but can also include trust fund claims, construction delay claims, alleged faulty work and property damage claims, and the architectural and engineering malpractice claims.

OUR LAWYERS REPRESENT CLIENTS IN EVERY ASPECT OF THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY INCLUDING:
  1. Lien Claims
  2. Lien Representation
  3. Construction Contracts
  4. Drafting and negotiating comprehensive construction agreements.
  5. Resolving disputes through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation, including claims related to deficiencies, delays, designs, and bid disputes.
  6. Handling claims under the Construction Lien Act, including payment and trust claims.
  7. Managing bond-related claims for bid, performance, payment, and financial guarantee bonds.
  8. Addressing errors and omissions claims involving architects and engineers.
  9. Handling subrogation claims related to construction insurance.
  10. Representing clients in court and before administrative tribunals.
  11. Advising on employment issues such as contracts, collective agreements, wrongful dismissals, and labour board representation.
  12. Managing health and safety compliance under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act.
  13. Navigating environmental regulations impacting construction projects.
  14. Assisting with construction loan negotiations, administration, and enforcement.
  15. Addressing insolvency and workout matters within the construction industry.
Our Construction Lawyers in St. Catharines Guide, Advise and Protect Your Interests at Every Stage

Tenders and Contracts

Our construction law attorneys have extensive experience drafting, reviewing, and negotiating various procurement documents and contracts. Whether it’s stipulated price, cost-plus, construction management, or EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) contracts, our expertise spans a wide array of agreements.

Over the years, we’ve developed a deep understanding of the differing perspectives in the industry, allowing us to anticipate and address the risks that each party is willing to take on and those that require extra caution.

Design and Construction

Our building construction lawyers serve as a vital resource during the design and construction phases. We help clients navigate issues related to contract interpretation, lien payments, bonding, disputes, and compliance with contractual obligations.

Our goal is to avoid disputes whenever possible, but when they arise, we work to resolve them swiftly and efficiently, ensuring they don’t escalate unnecessarily. Whether you need advice from a construction attorney on day-to-day challenges or more complex issues, we’re here to help keep your project on track.

Litigation and Alternative Dispute Resolution

With substantial experience in litigation, mediation, and arbitration, our construction dispute lawyers are equipped to handle even the most complex disputes. We have the resources and expertise to manage large-scale construction claims that often involve extensive documentation.

Regulatory Compliance

Staying compliant with local, provincial, and federal regulations is critical for the success of any construction project. Non-compliance can lead to costly delays, penalties, or even project shutdowns, which is why our team provides proactive legal advice to ensure every aspect of your project meets the necessary legal standards.

We guide clients through the intricacies of obtaining permits, navigating zoning laws, and adhering to environmental regulations. From reviewing construction permits to advising on zoning disputes and environmental impacts, we offer the legal support needed to avoid complications and keep your project on track.

Importance of Working with a Building Construction Law Firm

When it comes to construction projects, partnering with a dedicated construction law firm provides essential legal support and protection. We will help you:

  • Mitigate risks through experienced contract drafting.
  • Ensure compliance with local, provincial, and federal regulations.
  • Provide guidance during procurement and project execution.
  • Offer expert advice on lien, payment, and bonding issues.
  • Resolve disputes quickly through litigation or alternative dispute resolution.
  • Protect against construction defects and contract breaches.
  • Navigate complex industry-specific legal challenges.
  • Safeguard your financial investments and project outcomes.
  • Advise on matters such as labour, health and safety, public policy, and more.

Don’t let the web of legislation and local policy deter you: work with an experienced construction law group that helps you look past obstacles to successfully execute projects.

Defence Against Negligence and Liability Claims

Our firm specialises in defending clients against negligence and liability claims, protecting both their financial interests and their reputations. We approach each case with a thorough investigation, gathering all relevant documentation and expert testimony to dispute claims of negligence or construction defects.

Our team works closely with engineers, architects, and industry professionals to build a strong defence and refute baseless accusations. Our strategies are focused on mitigating risk early on by advising clients on best practices during the construction process.

Industry-Specific Expertise

We provide legal support across residential, commercial, and public infrastructure projects, ensuring that our clients have the benefit of specialised knowledge no matter their focus. Our in-depth understanding of industry trends and sector-specific challenges allows us to anticipate potential issues and offer proactive advice.

Contact one of our experienced lawyers practicing Construction Law to help you successfully navigate your legal needs.

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    Frequently Asks Questions

    Whether you are purchasing a newly constructed property, or a previously built one, you should retain lawyers for closing. Beyond carrying out title and lien checks or advising you on liabilities and property taxes, lawyers are instrumental in the financing process. Mortgage lenders will usually not disburse funds to the purchaser but instead channel them through the lawyers. 

    You can sue the city for a dip in the road in front of your home if you have suffered property damage because of it. In such a case, you may be able to sue the city for negligence in maintaining roads and facilities. 

    Speak to our construction lawyers about more cost-efficient options other than a lawsuit, including representation before city officials, and a complaint to the municipality.

    Construction lawyers help developers, REITs, and property managers reduce risk, protect their interests, and keep projects moving on time. Our lawyers advise and represent clients for:

    • Construction Financing
    • Zoning
    • Employment matters
    • Negotiations
    • Drafting and vetting contracts
    • And more

    You will receive pragmatic, knowledgeable solutions from a team that has helped shape the Niagara skyline.

    The cost will vary depending on the situation and different options available.

    Construction transactions and projects are some of the most complex matters, which is why we cannot provide a price before speaking to you. Once you speak to one of our lawyers, you will be able to see a more comprehensive look at what you will have to pay.

    If you are looking for the most experienced team of construction lawyers in St. Catharines and Niagara Falls, you have found it. With 140+ years of experience, we are part of Niagara's roots. We advise and represent clients in all construction-related matters and disputes.

    Yes, it’s ideal if you work with a lawyer for a construction loan, as lenders are usually more comfortable disbursing funds to lawyers than to borrowers or contractors directly. Your lawyers can also help with finding construction financing, drawing up agreements, and advising on special mortgage conditions that could impact your project.

    Some of the most common construction disputes in Ontario come from:

    • Errors and omissions in contracts.
    • Differing site conditions, such as unanticipated subsurface conditions.
    • Failure to meet contractual obligations.
    • Health and safety-related issues.
    • Zoning-related issues.

    You can identify and address potential areas of concern pre-emptively with experienced construction lawyers.

    The Construction Act of Ontario, along with its associated regulations, governs construction activity in Ontario. It covers a wide range of issues, including:

    • Financing
    • Invoicing
    • Project completion
    • Labour matters
    • Liability
    • Holdbacks
    • Liens
    • Dispute adjudication

    Ontario’s construction laws and policies can become overwhelming very quickly, which is why you should discuss your concerns with experienced construction lawyers.

    Consult a construction lawyer before you begin work on a building project to plan and prepare effectively. A lawyer will be able to guide and assist you with financing, city permissions, zoning, construction contracts, and more.

    Find out how we help builders and developers maximize the value of their investment.

    You should consider hiring a construction lawyer as early as possible, ideally before any contracts are signed. A lawyer can help you identify potential risks, review agreements, and ensure compliance with construction laws. If you're involved in a dispute or facing legal challenges, it's best to engage a lawyer right away.

    Yes, a construction lawyer can be invaluable in resolving contract disputes. Whether you're a contractor, subcontractor, or property owner, contract disagreements are common in construction. A lawyer will review the contract's language, identify areas of ambiguity, and help negotiate a solution. If necessary, your lawyer can represent you in mediation, arbitration, or litigation.

    Yes, a construction lawyer can be invaluable in resolving contract disputes. Whether you're a contractor, subcontractor, or property owner, contract disagreements are common in construction. A lawyer will review the contract's language, identify areas of ambiguity, and help negotiate a solution. If necessary, your lawyer can represent you in mediation, arbitration, or litigation.

    Our construction lawyers can assist you with putting in place or removing a construction lien, as well as other options, to protect your interests. Our team brings over 140+ years of experience representing businesses in the Niagara region and offers cutting-edge on-the-ground insight to ensure you receive payment as per the contract.

    Regulatory compliance in construction is complex, involving safety regulations, environmental laws, zoning rules, and more. A construction lawyer can help ensure your project adheres to all relevant regulations, reducing the risk of fines or project shutdowns. Having a local team is quintessential for the local know-how it can provide and insight it can offer.