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 Maryland, 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. Maryland's Mechanic's Lien Law provides a mechanism for contractors, subcontractors, and material suppliers to secure payment for their work by placing a lien on the property they have improved. To file a mechanic's lien, claimants must follow specific procedures, including filing within certain timeframes and, in some cases, proving the value of the work provided. Employment law is also a critical aspect of construction law in Maryland, governing the relationship between employers and employees on construction sites, including wage and hour laws, workplace safety, and workers' compensation. Insurance law plays a significant role in construction projects, as it provides coverage for various risks associated with construction activities. Additionally, Maryland's zoning and land use regulations must be adhered to during the planning and execution of construction projects, ensuring compliance with local ordinances and building codes. Real estate law intersects with construction law in matters such as property transactions, easements, and title issues that may arise during the development process.