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Construction dispute lawyer North Charleston

Defective work, delays, and unpaid balances

Homeowners and businesses face missed deadlines, poor workmanship, change order fights, and unpaid invoices. Disputes often arise on renovations near Park Circle or commercial jobs off Rivers Ave and I-526. Doughty Law Firm reviews the contract, scope, and communications to spot leverage.

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Contracts, warranties, and payment terms

Reading the fine print before you act

We examine warranty language, pay-when-paid clauses, and notice provisions. Clear documentation of defects and cure requests supports negotiations. Our goal is to enforce the agreement while preserving options if talks fail.

Mechanics liens and defenses

Filing, bonding off, and priorities

Subcontractors may file a mechanics lien to secure payment, and owners may respond by bonding off the lien. Timely filings and accurate amounts are crucial. We guide both sides through lien law and related motions.

Timelines and the discovery rule

Limits on claims and hidden defects

Construction claims have limitation and repose periods that can be affected by when defects were discovered. Hidden problems like water intrusion or wiring issues may surface after move-in. We gather expert reports to tie damages to the responsible party.

Questions about construction disputes

Straight answers for owners and contractors

  • What can I do if my contractor does not finish the job?

    Document the status, review cure provisions, and consider hiring a replacement after proper notice. We help plan steps that preserve claims and control costs.

  • How do I file a mechanics lien in South Carolina?

    Strict deadlines and notice rules apply to amounts owed. We prepare filings and respond to challenges.

  • Can I sue for construction defects?

    Yes, if work fails to meet the contract or standard, you can pursue repair costs and related damages. We coordinate inspections and expert opinions.

  • Do arbitration clauses apply?

    Many construction contracts require arbitration instead of court. We evaluate the clause and prepare your case for that forum.

  • How long will my case take?

    Timelines depend on discovery, expert work, and willingness to settle. We move the case forward and report milestones.

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Ready to move forward

Talk with a North Charleston construction dispute lawyer

Bring the contract, photos, and payment history. Doughty Law Firm will outline remedies and a plan to resolve the project.