Construction Litigation Lawyer in Michigan and Florida

Construction litigation involves resolving disputes during or after a building project, such as defects, delays, payment issues, and contract terms. In Michigan and Florida, these cases may involve owners, contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and design professionals, and often hinge on the specific construction law rules that apply to your project.

What Issues May Require Construction Litigation?

Construction disputes take many shapes, and most fall into a handful of recurring problems. Common issues that lead to construction litigation in Michigan and Florida include:

• Defective or substandard workmanship
• Project delays and schedule disputes
• Nonpayment or withheld payment
• Breach of contract by any party
• Licensing issues
• Construction lien and bond disputes
• Contract default and termination

Each issue affects a project’s cost, timeline, and safety. The stakes often increase the longer they remain unresolved. Identifying the source of conflict early helps you protect your money and property. Gathering key facts and documents at this stage shapes the case.

How Long Do You Have to File in Michigan and Florida?

Michigan law imposes strict time limits on construction defect claims. Under MCL 600.5839, lawsuits against architects, engineers, and contractors for defective or unsafe improvements must generally be filed within 6 years of the improvement’s occupation, use, or acceptance. Claims can be extended no later than 10 years under any circumstances.  Failing to act within that period can bar recovery entirely.  Claims for foreclosure of construction liens have much shorter time frames: the lien must be filed within 90 days of the last date of work, and suit must be filed within a year.

Breach of contract claims follow a different rule, with a separate six-year statute of limitations that typically begins running on the date the alleged breach occurred rather than on the date the defect is discovered.

Florida has different provisions for contracts of one to five years, depending on whether the contract is verbal or written and whether specific performance is sought as a remedy.

How Are Construction Disputes Resolved?

Not every dispute heads straight to a courtroom. Common ways to resolve a Michigan or Florida construction dispute include:

• Direct negotiation between the parties
• Mediation with a neutral third party
• Arbitration under the contract terms
• Filing a lawsuit in circuit court

The most effective approach depends on several factors, including the value of the dispute, the terms of the construction contract, whether the parties want to keep the claim private, and whether maintaining an ongoing business relationship is important. In many situations, mediation or a negotiated settlement offers a faster, more cost-effective resolution than litigation.

Early evaluation can help minimize delays, control costs, and reduce the dispute’s business impact.

Why Does Acting Early Matter?

Construction disputes often become more difficult and expensive when left unaddressed. Taking prompt action allows you to secure important evidence before information is lost or becomes harder to obtain, including:

• Project documents
• Photographs
• Inspection reports
• Communications

Acting early protects your rights, prevents missed deadlines, and strengthens your ability to secure a favorable settlement before costs rise.

Work With Our Construction Litigation Lawyer in Michigan or Florida Today

When your Michigan or Florida project goes wrong, act fast. August Law can quickly review your contract, assess your claim, and give you practical solutions. Whether you’re an owner, contractor, or subcontractor, working with a construction litigation lawyer early is crucial to protect your investment and stop a manageable problem from becoming a costly crisis.

Take the next step to protect your project. Contact us now using our online form for a confidential consultation with an experienced construction litigation lawyer in Michigan or Florida.