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 Tennessee, construction law encompasses a wide range of legal areas as they relate to the construction industry. This includes the creation and enforcement of mechanic's and materialmen's liens, which are legal claims made by contractors and suppliers for payment for work performed or materials provided. Tennessee Code Title 66, Chapter 11 outlines the process for filing and enforcing these liens, as well as the time frames and notice requirements involved. Construction contracts are governed by general contract law principles, and disputes may arise over issues such as breach of contract, delays, or defects. Employment law issues in construction may involve wage and hour laws, workplace safety regulations, and workers' compensation. Insurance law is also critical in construction, as it pertains to coverage for property damage, injuries, and professional liability. Additionally, zoning and land use laws impact where and how structures can be built, and real estate law governs the purchase and sale of property. Each of these areas of law can affect the various stages of a construction project, from planning and design to completion and beyond.