Newsletters

The Fair Housing Act

In 1968, Congress enacted the Fair Housing Act (FHA). The law can be found at 42 U.S.C.S. § 3601.

Preparation for Construction Claims

Construction claims are so prevalent and diverse that preparation for the inevitable should be a part of each contractor's normal business routine. Though the source and nature of each claim is not known, contractors do know when the performance of their work is impacted or when events, circumstances, or situations arise that are outside the realm of the contractual provisions contemplated by the parties. In these instances, the contractor should collect any pertinent information and documentation that would support its actions or assist in the defense of any potential claims.

Security Deposits

Very often, when a landlord and a tenant enter into a lease agreement, the landlord requires the tenant to make some type of payment to the landlord in addition to the first month's rent. The payment serves as security that the tenant will return the leased premises to the landlord, at the end of the lease term, in substantially the same condition as when the parties entered into the lease agreement.

The Historic Homeowner -- State and Local Preservation Laws

The issue of historic preservation is governed by a myriad of federal, state, and local laws. Generally speaking, the purpose of preservation laws is to encourage the recognition of historic resources, as well as the preservation of those resources. Without question, historic preservation is a legitimate governmental objective. On the state and local levels, historic preservation controls may be enacted subject to the applicable constitutional constraints.

Title Examinations

Al just found out that the offer he submitted to purchase his dream house was accepted by the seller. Al has begun working out the details of his mortgage loan with his lender. The lender advised him that a title examination is required as a part of the closing process.