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 Michigan, construction law encompasses a wide range of legal areas as they relate to the construction industry. This includes the creation and enforcement of construction contracts, which detail the rights and obligations of parties involved in construction projects. Michigan's construction law also covers mechanic's liens, known in the state as construction liens, which are governed by the Michigan Construction Lien Act. This Act provides a legal framework for contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and laborers to secure payment for their work or materials provided on a project by placing a lien on the property improved. Additionally, construction law in Michigan involves employment law issues, such as compliance with labor standards and safety regulations, as well as personal injury law, which may come into play in cases of accidents and injuries on construction sites. Insurance law is also crucial, as it pertains to the types of coverage required for construction projects. Furthermore, zoning and land use regulations must be adhered to, ensuring that construction complies with local ordinances and land use plans. Real estate law intersects with construction law in matters of property transactions and disputes related to construction activities. Overall, construction law in Michigan is a complex field that requires navigating multiple areas of law to ensure compliance and protect the interests of all parties involved in the construction process.