Construction Law and Contracts
In order to avoid costly delays and litigation that can arise during a project, construction managers need to be aware of the legal issues that can arise in the construction process. This course will provide an overview of the laws concerning contracting and construction. Through lecture, a review of case law and engaging Q&As, you will gain substantive knowledge in the various areas of construction law, including private and public contracts, bidding, mechanic's lien, stop notice and payment bonds, contractors’ license law, agency, business organizations, bankruptcy and dispute resolution. By the end of this course, you will possess a framework for recognizing, understanding and mitigating legal issues that could arise during one of your construction projects.
Learning Outcomes
- Analyze contracts and identify risks associated with contract language and clauses
- Differentiate the rights and liabilities of contractors and design professionals, including mechanic's lien, stop notice and payment bond
- Evaluate issues of agency, vicarious liability and contract responsibility
- Differentiate between mediation, arbitration and court trials for dispute resolution
Skills You Will Gain
- Contract Law
- Contract risk assessment
- Contract composition
- Bankruptcy law
- Legal research
Association Credits
Section Notes
This is an online course with class materials that can be accessed throughout the week. The course is structured to move from one week to the next.
Students will receive an email with login information to access the course one business day before the first day of class.
If you anticipate needing any Disability Accommodations, please contact our Student Services representative PRIOR to enrolling in this course. The accommodations must be organized before starting the program. Please contact Tina Ehrke at (530) 757-8727 if you would like to register for a course and you have disability-related needs or concerns. https://cpe.ucdavis.edu/student-services/disabilities
There is no required textbook for this course.
Certificate students: Students must earn a grade of C or higher (not a C minus) in order for this course to count towards the requirements for the Construction Management Certificate. Courses applied towards the Construction Management Certificate must be completed within five years.
Refund deadline: 4/15/25. Refunds and/or enrollment transfers will not be approved after this date.
Enrollment Policies
Refund Deadline: April 15, 2025. Refunds and/or enrollment transfers will not be approved after this date. Drop requests (withdraw with a refund) will be approved, less a $30 processing fee, if the request is received by the refund deadline. Click here to view complete enrollment policy information including details on withdrawals and transfers.
Students have the first week of class to enroll with the understanding that students who enroll after the first day of class are expected to reach out to their instructors to make sure they receive all content and are on track with the course.