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 Connecticut, construction law encompasses a wide range of legal areas as they relate to the construction industry. This includes the regulation of mechanic's and materialmen's liens, which are governed by Connecticut General Statutes, specifically Chapter 847 that provides the framework for filing and enforcing such liens. Contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers can file these liens for unpaid labor, materials, or services on a construction project. Contract law is also a significant aspect of construction law in Connecticut, with contracts being essential for defining the rights and obligations of parties involved in construction projects. Employment law is relevant as it pertains to the rights and responsibilities of employers and employees in the construction sector, including wage and hour laws, workplace safety, and workers' compensation. Personal injury law intersects with construction law in cases of accidents and injuries on construction sites. Insurance law is crucial for managing risks through policies like general liability and workers' compensation insurance. Additionally, zoning law and real estate law play important roles in determining land use and the legalities of property transactions related to construction. Connecticut's regulations in these areas are designed to ensure fair practices, safety, and compliance with state and federal standards.