As 2025 draws to a close, signs of cautious optimism are emerging in the U.S. housing market. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), builder sentiment climbed to a six-month high in October, with the Housing Market Index rising five points to 37. This number represents the most bullish figure since April. While
Texas design professionals, such as architects, engineers and surveyors, now have stronger legal tools to secure payment for their work, thanks to recent amendments to Chapter 53 of the Texas Property Code. Effective for prime contracts dated on or after January 1, 2022, these changes mark a significant expansion of Texas lien law, leveling the
Subordination agreements can be used to impact the priority of all lien holders, whether a bank or a contractor, on a project. In a recent decision, the Fourteenth Court of Appeals found a subordination agreement valid to subordinate an existing lien to one that had yet to be created.
In Brazoria 10.5 Ltd. v. Mac
The Texas 89th Legislative Session was marked by significant legislative activity, with lawmakers considering a substantial volume of proposed legislation across both chambers. According to our tally, 9,014 bills and resolutions underwent review and consideration in the House and Senate during this session.
Of the total legislation considered, 1,185 measures ultimately became law through various
The ongoing legal battle over President Trump’s tariffs has taken another not completely unexpected turn, as a federal appeals court has decided to keep the tariffs in effect—at least for now. This decision comes amid a debate over the scope of presidential authority in trade matters, with implications for businesses, international relations and the broader
On June 4, 2025, the Trump Administration doubled tariffs on imported steel and aluminum from 25% to 50%, the same day as its deadline for trading partners to give their “best offer” in bids to avoid import tax rates on other goods from taking effect next month. The increase applies to nearly all trading partners
The ongoing legal and political saga surrounding President Donald Trump’s tariffs has taken an expected turn following the U.S. Court of International Trade’s surprise ruling earlier this week. A federal appeals court has temporarily lifted a lower court’s block on the most sweeping of Trump’s tariffs, allowing the administration to proceed with certain duties while
Yesterday, May 28, 2025 the U.S. Court of International Trade delivered a landmark decision that could reshape the landscape of American trade policy and presidential authority. The court ruled that President Trump exceeded his legal authority in imposing the current global tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). This decision not only challenges
Unexpected devastating weather events such as hurricanes, tornados, earthquakes, fires and other natural disasters can strike at any time, leaving construction projects in disarray. While Mother Nature is often unpredictable, we can control how we prepare for and respond to such events through the careful drafting or understanding of force majeure provisions within your construction