Construction law is a general reference to various areas of law as applied to the design, engineering, and construction of buildings—including residential buildings and commercial buildings—as well as bridges, roads, pipelines, railroads, water transmission and distribution systems, electrical power transmission systems, sewerage systems, and other structures.

In addition to the law governing the filing and removal of mechanic’s and materialmen’s liens (also known as contractor liens), construction law includes contract law, employment law, personal injury law, insurance law, zoning law, and real estate law.

In Alaska, construction law encompasses a wide range of legal areas as they relate to the construction industry. This includes the creation and enforcement of contracts, which are essential for defining the rights and obligations of parties involved in construction projects. Alaska's statutes provide specific provisions for mechanic's and materialmen's liens, which are legal claims made by contractors and suppliers for payment for work performed or materials provided. These liens must be filed within a certain timeframe and in accordance with state procedures to be valid. Employment law is also a critical aspect, governing the relationship between employers and employees in the construction sector, including wage and hour laws, workplace safety, and labor relations. Personal injury law comes into play when there are accidents or injuries on construction sites, with potential liability for those responsible for maintaining a safe environment. Insurance law is relevant as it pertains to the types of coverage required for construction projects, such as liability insurance and workers' compensation. Additionally, zoning and real estate laws impact where and how structures can be built, and these are governed by both state statutes and local ordinances. Overall, construction law in Alaska is a complex interplay of various legal disciplines that collectively regulate the construction industry.