Davis Brown Construction Law Blog

Is a Worker an Employee or Independent Contractor? DOL Proposes New Rule - October 2, 2020

The Department of Labor is proposing new rules to determine whether a worker is an independent contractor vs. employee. New rules should give greater guidance to the construction industry. Read More »

Increased Material Costs Leave Contractors Asking about Contract Protections - September 8, 2020

40%+ increases in lumber and material costs are putting contractors and builders in a rough spot. Who is responsible to cover the increased costs? Read More »

Changes to Tax-Exempt Construction Projects - June 30, 2020

Governor Reynolds signs HF2641 removing sales tax on services purchased by contractors working on tax-exempt projects. Read More »

Bill Enhancing Residential Mechanic's Lien Rights Passes Both Chambers - Now on to Governor - June 15, 2020

Residential contractors will again have the right to collect attorney's fees as part of their mechanic's liens. Read More »

Contractors May Resume Door-to-Door Sales and Solicitations - May 28, 2020

The prohibition on door-to-door sales/solicitations expired on May 27, 11:59 p.m. Read More »

Is COVID-19 a Recordable Event? - April 28, 2020

OSHA's guidance during this pandemic has changed over time. Currently, COVID-19 is a recordable event for some employers. Read More »

State of Iowa Cracking Down on Contractors Who Act Improperly on Insurance Claim Projects - April 22, 2020

Iowa Insurance Division ordered a construction company to pay $15,000 for violations. Read More »

Contracts and COVID-19: What Iowa Construction and Design Companies Need to Know - April 14, 2020

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, construction and design companies need to review their current contracts, as well as consider modifications to their future contracts, in order to best protect them in these uncertain times. Read More »

COVID-19 Update for Construction Industry - March 18, 2020

COVID-19 updates and recommendations for the construction industry including warranty checks, worksites, inspections. Read More »

COVID-19 - Recommended Best Practices for the Workplace - March 12, 2020

Our most current construction and real estate workplace recommendations and resources, including a recommended travel policy. Read More »