Construction Law FAQs – The Bronx, NY (Bronx County)
Construction projects in The Bronx often involve tight budgets, fast timelines, and multi-tiered subcontracting structures. Whether you’re working on a public school renovation in Mott Haven or a mixed-use development in Riverdale, understanding New York’s construction law is essential. At Kushnick Pallaci PLLC, we help Bronx-based contractors, suppliers, and owners navigate mechanic’s liens, trust fund disputes, and construction litigation.
📍 Bronx Construction Law FAQs
Q: How long do I have to file a mechanic’s lien in The Bronx?
A: For private projects, you must file your lien within 8 months of the last date you performed work or delivered materials—or 4 months for single-family dwellings. On public projects, you must file a public improvement lien within 30 days after project completion and acceptance by the public agency.
Q: Can I file a lien on a public school project in The Bronx?
A: Yes, but not on the property itself. On public jobs—such as NYC Department of Education or School Construction Authority projects—you file a lien against the funds owed to the general contractor. These public improvement liens must be filed with the public agency, not the County Clerk.
Q: What if the contractor misused money meant to pay me?
A: That may qualify as trust fund diversion under Article 3-A of the NY Lien Law. Construction funds must be held in trust for subcontractors and suppliers. If the contractor used those funds improperly (e.g., for unrelated debts), they can face personal liability. We handle these trust fund claims regularly in Bronx construction disputes.
Q: Is licensing required to enforce construction contracts or liens in The Bronx?
A: Yes. If your work requires a home improvement or trade license, you must be properly licensed by the NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection at the time of the work. If not, you may be prohibited from filing a lien or suing to enforce the contract.
Q: What should I do if a lien is improperly filed against my Bronx property?
A: You can:
- File a §19 petition to discharge the lien in Bronx Supreme Court,
- Require the lienor to commence a foreclosure action, or
- Bond off the lien to clear title for financing or sale.
We represent both lien claimants and property owners throughout The Bronx.
Q: Where are construction cases in The Bronx handled?
A: Most construction litigation in The Bronx is heard in the Bronx County Supreme Court, located at 851 Grand Concourse. This includes lien foreclosures, contract claims, and trust fund diversion lawsuits. We have extensive experience in this venue.
🔗 Related Services:
- Bronx Construction Lien Filing & Defense
- Contract Dispute Litigation
- Article 3-A Trust Fund Enforcement
📞 Construction Law Assistance in The Bronx
If you’re dealing with a non-payment issue, an improper lien, or a contract dispute in The Bronx, Kushnick Pallaci PLLC is here to help you protect your legal rights.
Call (631) 752-7100 or visit www.nyconstructionlaw.com to speak with a construction law attorney today.