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Construction Law.

Construction projects involve multiple parties, moving parts, and decisions that carry through every phase of the work. From early planning to final completion — and sometimes beyond — having the right legal guidance can help keep projects on track and issues manageable.

At a glance

GroupBusiness & Transactional
Project sidesOwner · Developer · GC · Sub · Supplier
AdjacentLitigation

A timely-filed mechanic's lien may be enforced against the project property, but a late-filed lien will not be effective. Virginia's deadlines are strict and short.

Construction lawyers at PLDR Law in Virginia — Lynchburg construction attorneys
— 01What construction
law includes.

Construction lawyers serving Lynchburg and all of Virginia.

From the contract before the first shovel turns, to the last claim after final completion.

  • Project Planning and Development
  • Drafting and negotiating construction and design agreements
  • Advising on zoning, licensing, and permitting requirements
  • Supporting project development, design, and financing
  • Procurement and Execution
  • Assisting with bidding, procurement, and government contracting
  • Claims and Disputes
  • Handling construction claims, delays, and payment disputes
  • Addressing defective construction, materials, or design issues
  • Filing and enforcing mechanic’s liens and bond claims
  • Coordinating with expert consultants on construction claims and disputes
— 02When you might
need this.

You may need help with construction law matters if you are:

  • Starting or planning a construction project
  • Negotiating contracts with owners, contractors, or suppliers
  • Navigating permitting, licensing, or regulatory requirements
  • Dealing with delays, change orders, or payment issues
  • Addressing construction defects or performance concerns
  • Involved in a dispute related to a construction project
Worksite-adjacent counsel for Virginia contractors
Worksite-adjacent counsel for Virginia contractors
— 03How we help.

We work with clients across all phases of construction projects — from initial planning and contracting through completion and dispute resolution. Our team represents developers, contractors, design professionals, suppliers, and sureties with experience handling both transactional matters and complex disputes. We stay engaged with developments in the construction industry to help clients navigate evolving requirements and challenges. Construction issues often involve multiple parties and competing obligations. How they're handled early can shape what happens next. Not every issue requires formal litigation. When appropriate, we use negotiation, mediation, or arbitration to resolve disputes efficiently.

— 04Common
questions.

Questions clients ask about construction law in Virginia.

Contractors, subs, and developers ask versions of these. Plain-English answers — not legal advice for your specific project.

What's the deadline to file a mechanic's lien in Virginia?

A mechanic's lien must be filed within 90 days of the last day of the month in which work was last performed or materials were last furnished — but no later than 90 days after completion. Miss the window and the lien remedy is lost, regardless of whether the debt is valid. The clock is unforgiving.

How do I get paid when a Virginia owner won't pay my invoice?

Serve a properly-perfected mechanic's lien within the statutory window. Consider Virginia's statutory remedies on public and private projects. Litigation is the last resort but is sometimes necessary.

What's the statute of limitations on a Virginia construction claim?

It depends on the claim. Generally 5 years for breach of written contract, 3 years for oral contracts, and a separate statute of repose can apply to tort claims tied to improvements to real property.

Who is personally liable for a Virginia construction company's debts?

It depends on the entity structure, what you signed, and whether you signed personal guarantees. Many contractors personally guarantee supplier credit lines, equipment financing, or surety bonds — making them personally liable even with a formal corporate structure. Review guarantees carefully and consider contacting counsel before signing anything new.

Note: The information above is general guidance and not legal advice. Construction law is fact-specific — talk with a Virginia construction attorney about your project.
Talk with our team

Talk with our team.

If you're planning a project or dealing with an issue during or after construction, we'll help you understand your options and how to move forward.