State, county and local governments are frequent sources of construction contracts. Construction companies which secure public projects can find themselves with lucrative contracts that they can generally rely on as a secure source of payment. However, government contracts also come with additional procedural requirements that are not typically found in private projects. The construction law attorneys at Hayes & Newman, P.L. in Orlando can guide you through the specific requirements and distinctions of Florida public works projects. Let our firm help you with:
Additionally, Hayes & Newman, P.L. can guide you through the complexities of Florida public records laws, and requirements for payment and performance bonds on state and federal construction projects. Read on for more information about these important areas.
State laws such as the Florida Government in the Sunshine and Public Records Act can put significant burdens on private contractors working with the state. These laws can require private contractors to comply with Florida open records laws as though they were part of the public agencies they are working for. Contractors can therefore be required to:
Depending upon the government agency and the dollar amount of the project, the law may also dictate the level of detail required in bills submitted, along with technical requirements regarding the scope of work, deliverables, and criteria and final date for completion.
In addition, we have expertise in pursuing your rights under the Public Records Act, Chapter 119, Florida Statutes. The firm has handled numerous public records suits in cases where public information was wrongly denied. We have also worked in successfully enforcing rights regarding public meetings under the Sunshine Law, section 286.011, Florida Statutes.
Our construction law attorneys can help you navigate these difficult waters to keep you in compliance with the law.
The federal Miller Act requires payment and performance bonds on federal construction projects, and Florida’s little Miller Act (Florida Statutes 255.05) places similar requirements on state-level public works projects. Whether these laws apply depends upon the certain dollar threshold amounts and the contracting entity. Miller Act laws can affect claims for payment by contractors and subs for labor and materials, or claims for performance by the building owner. The Miller Act imposes a time frame for contesting a claim, and also imposes requirements regarding the execution of a waiver to make a claim in exchange for a progress payment or final payment. If you are unfamiliar with public works projects, Hayes & Newman, P.L. can help you understand when bonds are required and how they may affect your project.
If you are a general contractor or subcontractor working on a state or federal public works project in Florida, contact the Florida construction law attorneys at Hayes & Newman, P.L. for sound advice and professional, effective representation.