In recent years within the construction law sector, the interaction of contractual claims procedures, unsigned change orders, and differed directions have become particularly pivotal points of interest. A recent case from the Washington Court of Appeals, Cascade Civil Construction, LLC v. Jackson Dean Construction presents a notable incidence JD Supra reports. The case serves as a reminder to contractors to carefully review their contract terms when confronted with additional work demands without a signed order, or when additional expenses and delays are likely.
This unpublished opinion from Division I of the Washington Court of Appeals pertains to an excavation subcontractor’s ongoing contractual conflicts. As is common practice in construction law, a change order – a document commonly used to record alterations to the original contract – should be signed before any changes are performed. However, in cases where contractors are pressured to enact changes without a signed change order, there can be significant legal and financial ramifications.
The complexity of cascade civil construction becomes clear through this case, revealing the risks associated with proceeding under pressure without the necessary documents on record. With unsigned change orders, contractors may find themselves facing hefty financial burdens should claims for additional costs or time be rejected.
The specific case of Cascade Civil Construction, LLC v. Jackson Dean Construction illuminates these challenges. The details of their dispute underscores how crucial it is for all contractors to offer careful consideration to their contractual terms, particularly when a risk of incurring additional expenses or experiencing delays surfaces.
In conclusion, this case serves as an urgent reminder to all professionals in the field to meticulously review their contracts’ claims procedures, ensuring they are protected against the potential ramifications of implementing changes without signed change orders. Given the ever-changing landscape of legal consequences, a prudent contractor keeps a keen eye on all aspects of their agreement, thereby safeguarding their interests against unexpected financial liabilities or disruptive delays.