Holiday decorations make homes warm and festive — but they also increase the risk of fire, electric shock, and property damage. From overloaded outlets and frayed light strings to unattended candles and dry Christmas trees, many seasonal hazards are preventable.

When it comes to construction contracts, arbitration and mediation (Alternate Dispute Resolution) are both commonly specified for out of court dispute resolution. The use of mediation and arbitration in construction contracts, both for small and large construction, has been increasingly common over the past decade. Lawyers often debate between themselves whether mediation, arbitration, or litigation in court is their preferred choice for resolution, or more importantly, which is the best clear forum for the dispute. Due in part to prior restrictions on enforcement ability, some steered shy of ADR. Recently, however, newly effective Construction Industry Arbitration Rules seek to address these shortcomings . While these new rules have several changes both in administration and authority, the following are the top 3 which enhance the ADR process:

Though the holiday season represents happiness and channeling positive energy for the New Year, unfortunate events can happen without expecting they will. Did it ever occur to you that your favorite decorations such as twinkling lights and evergreen scented candles could become dangerous? Below are five important steps to ensure your decorations are a success and not a mess. For more information about the United States Fire Administration, please click here.

Holiday Safety Measures For Your Home -

Though the holiday season represents happiness and channeling positive energy for the New Year, unfortunate events can happen without expecting they will.

ftlconstructionlaw.com

Managing a budget is generally a high priority on a homeowner’s list when beginning a home improvement project. Unfortunately, many homeowners make the mistake of saving money by hiring an unlicensed contractor. Although it may seem to be the more attractive, less expensive option, hiring an unlicensed contractor to save some money could be very problematic, leading to long-term negative financial effects or legal consequences. This is due to the fact that there is no guarantee that an unlicensed contractor will have the necessary insurance policies in place to protect your property, themselves, their workers, and any other damages that may arise from their construction work.

Building or renovating a home is one of the biggest investments most people will ever make. So when an inspector walks through your property and fails it, it can feel like your dream has hit a brick wall. The good news is that a failed inspection is not the end of the road. It’s a common hurdle that homeowners in both New York and Florida face, and the law provides specific ways to correct, appeal, or escalate the situation. In this post, we’ll break down what to do immediately, what your rights and responsibilities are under New York and Florida law, how to deal with contractors who won’t cooperate, and what resources are available if you need to take things further.

My New Home or Renovation Failed Inspection: What Now? - The Law Offices of John Caravella, P.C. - FL

In Florida, you may use Chapter 558, which requires homeowners to send a written notice of construction defects before filing a lawsuit.

ftlconstructionlaw.com