Spencer Fane attorneys Theresa C. Becerra and Zackary G. Smith’s article, The Private Works Change Order Fair Payment Act and Its Implications for Subcontractor Claims, was recently published by California Constructor Magazine.
In the article, the team discusses a new California law that changes how payment and delay disputes are handled in private construction projects. They explain that the law introduces stricter timelines and procedures for resolving claims and encourages faster payment through penalties and required dispute steps. The authors also note that while the law is intended to improve fairness in payment practices, it will require careful attention to contract terms and compliance.
“The Act creates a powerful yet highly procedural set of rights. It is imperative that several key areas be addressed during contract drafting and that subcontractors understand how to maintain proper documentation to support claims and how to submit claims correctly,” the team wrote.
Theresa is a business, real estate, and construction attorney with over 25 years of experience specializing in housing, complex commercial disputes, and high-stakes litigation involving unfair business practices, contract interference, and fiduciary claims.
Zack represents clients in all aspects of the construction industry, including owners, developers, contractors, and subcontractors, while also managing complex commercial litigation, arbitrations, and administrative proceedings nationwide for public and privately held companies in the manufacturing, oil and gas, and real estate sectors.
Read the team’s full article here.