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 Montana (MT), 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. Employment law is also significant, as it governs the relationship between employers and workers on construction sites, including wage and hour laws, safety regulations, and workers' compensation. Personal injury law is relevant in cases of accidents and injuries on construction sites, where liability and negligence may be determined. Insurance law plays a crucial role in construction, as it involves the types of coverage required for construction projects, such as liability insurance and builder's risk insurance. Zoning and real estate law are important for ensuring that construction projects comply with local land use regulations and property laws. Lastly, Montana has specific statutes governing mechanic’s and materialmen’s liens, which are legal claims made by contractors and suppliers for payment for services rendered or materials provided. These liens are a critical aspect of construction law in Montana, as they provide a mechanism for those who contribute to the improvement of property to secure payment. The relevant statutes for mechanic's liens in Montana can be found in Title 71, Chapter 3 of the Montana Code Annotated.