Construction Law
How Even Small Construction Businesses Can Benefit from an Attorney Part 4
The construction industry is already incredibly competitive. The last thing a start-up needs is to be derailed, not by competition, but by their own shortsightedness. In this four-part series, we’ve been discussing how even small construction businesses can benefit from partnering with an attorney that specializes in Nashville construction law. Now, we will be discussing how an attorney can help an emerging construction company operate smoothly and in compliance with all state and federal laws. If you would like to catch up on this series, read parts one, two, and three.
Reviewing, Revising, and Drafting Contracts
Whenever a construction dispute arises, it is usually the contract that specifies how conflicts are decided. As we covered in part one, an attorney can be a formidable ally in resolving disputes, but a dispute may have been avoided if an attorney had reviewed, revised, or drafted your contracts to begin with. An attorney can ensure that your contracts clearly define expectations and scope of work while balancing the needs of contractors, subcontractors, and owners. This is crucial in a state like Tennessee where unusually low retainage caps can cause contractors to unknowingly violate state law.
Draft Your Employee Manual
As with construction contracts, an employee manual should be your go-to in a time of crisis. It can also outline employee expectations and rules to prevent issues altogether. An employee manual should include information on attendance, drug policies, expectations, safety, and employment laws. A well-written employee manual can even protect your company from litigation in the event that an employee makes a false claim that runs counter to what is stated in the employee manual. As your company grows, your employee manual must grow too. Whether you need an employee manual created from scratch or you need to update your existing manual, take a look at our subscription plans and see which option is right for your company.
Ensuring OSHA Compliance
Much of the advice that we’ve given throughout this series is to help ensure that you avoid the pitfalls that have brought other fledgling construction companies to the brink of bankruptcy. Many construction companies have gone under because they failed to adequately provide their workforce with a safe and hazard-free work environment. If you’ve been issued an OSHA citation, immediately consult with an attorney at our Nashville construction law firm.
Don’t make the same mistakes as your bankrupt predecessors. To ensure that your small business grows, thrives, and succeeds where others have failed, partner with the experienced attorneys at Cotney Attorneys & Consultants.
If you would like to speak an expert at our Nashville construction law firm, please contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.