EP 70 | Why do Homeowners & Builders Fight? – The Truth Behind Conflicts | Kenneth Stephens

In this episode:

In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, host Curtis Lawson sits down with Kenneth Stevens, a partner at Stevens, Reed & Armstrong and an expert in construction litigation, to discuss the common causes of disputes in construction projects and strategies for avoiding them. This episode emphasizes the importance of accountability, transparency, and clear communication between homeowners and contractors to ensure a successful project outcome.

TOPICS COVERED:

• • The Importance of Accountability: Understand the crucial role of accountability in preventing and resolving disputes, and how a lack of accountability can escalate minor issues into costly legal battles.
  • The Value of Early Communication: Emphasize the importance of open and honest communication between homeowners and contractors, especially when it comes to addressing mistakes, delays, or unexpected issues.
  • Contractual Clarity: Discuss the importance of clear and detailed contracts, including specifications, allowances, and draw schedules, to minimize misunderstandings and ensure both parties are on the same page.
  • The Role of Legal Counsel: Encourage homeowners and contractors to seek legal counsel to review and understand their contracts, protecting their interests and avoiding potential pitfalls.
  • Transparency and Scope Definition: Highlight the importance of transparency in defining project scope, ensuring that all parties have a clear understanding of what is included and excluded from the contract.
  • Change Order Management: Discuss the proper procedures for managing change orders, including obtaining written approval, assigning costs, and ensuring timely payment to avoid disputes.
  • Third-Party Verification: Explore the benefits of using third-party inspectors and verifiers to ensure compliance with plans, specifications, and building codes, providing an additional layer of protection for both homeowners and contractors.
  • The Dangers of Overpromising: Address the common issue of overpromising in the construction industry, and the importance of setting realistic expectations for project timelines, costs, and capabilities.
  • The Importance of Experience: Emphasize the need for contractors to take on projects that align with their experience and financial capacity to avoid potential issues related to undercapitalization or lack of expertise.
  • The Value of Communication with Subcontractors: Discuss the importance of clear communication and detailed agreements with subcontractors to ensure alignment on expectations, responsibilities, and payment schedules.

GET IN TOUCH: 

Guest: Kenneth Stevens

Business Title: Partner

Company: Stevens Reed & Armstrong, PLLC

Website: https://www.srapllc.com/

Full Transcript