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 Maine, 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. Maine's statutes provide specific guidelines for the filing and enforcement of mechanic's liens, which are legal claims made by contractors and suppliers for payment for work performed or materials provided. These liens are governed by Title 10, Chapter 603 of the Maine Revised Statutes. Employment law is also a critical aspect, covering worker safety regulations, wage laws, and hiring practices. Personal injury law comes into play when there are accidents or injuries on construction sites, requiring an understanding of negligence and liability issues. Insurance law is relevant in terms of the types of coverage required for construction projects, such as general liability and workers' compensation insurance. Additionally, zoning and land use laws, found in Title 30-A of the Maine Revised Statutes, regulate the location and type of construction that can occur, while real estate law deals with the purchase and sale of property where construction takes place. Attorneys practicing in the field of construction law in Maine must be well-versed in these various legal areas to effectively advise and represent their clients in the construction industry.