Johnston|thomas Construction Law

construction contracts: capturing expectations a successful construction project starts with a good contract, one that carefully spells out all the expectations of the parties. most disputes arise out of the failure of either the owner or the contractor or both to carefully think through all phases of the project, documenting in detail the expectations of the owner and establishing firm deadlines and a payment schedule that keeps the project on time and on budget. home improvement contracts in california there are many laws that are in place to protect the public from inept or unscrupulous contractors. some of the requirements are: • all contracts more than $500 must be in writing. • the contract must be clear and understandable. • the up-front deposit cannot exceed 10% of the contract price or $1,000, whichever is less, unless the contractor has on file a special blanket performance and payment bond. • the contract must include a start date and a completion date. • the periodic pay