Construction & Commercial Real Estate in Lafayette, Louisiana

Construction Projects

Construction projects involve many parties, including owners, general contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers, each relying on the others to perform and to pay. Clear contracts and prompt action when problems arise are the best protection. We represent owners, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers in:

• Drafting and reviewing construction contracts and subcontracts
• Change orders, delay, and scope disputes
• Payment disputes and collection
• Defective work claims

Liens and the Louisiana Private Works Act

On private projects in Louisiana, the Louisiana Private Works Act (La. R.S. 9:4801 et seq.) gives certain contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and laborers rights to file a statement of claim or privilege (commonly called a lien) against the property. These rights depend on strict notice and filing deadlines, and the rules differ depending on the claimant's role and whether a notice of contract was filed. Public projects follow a separate statute. Missing a deadline can mean losing lien rights, so it is important to get advice early. Owners facing a lien also have options to respond, including bonding or contesting the claim.

Commercial Real Estate

For businesses and investors, we assist with:

• Commercial leases for landlords and tenants
• Purchase and sale agreements
• Servitudes (easements) and access issues
• Due diligence on commercial property

Louisiana property law uses its own civil-law terms and rules, such as servitudes rather than easements and immovables rather than real property, so documents prepared for other states may need adjustment.

Growth in Acadiana

New industrial and commercial development across Acadiana, including in Vermilion Parish, is creating opportunities for contractors and landowners. See our Aerospace & Industrial Development page for more on project-related work.

Common Questions

I have not been paid on a job. What should I do first? Gather your contract, invoices, delivery records, and any notices you sent or received, and talk with a lawyer quickly. Lien deadlines under the Private Works Act can be short.

Can a lien be removed? Depending on the circumstances, an owner may be able to bond the claim, challenge an untimely or improper filing, or resolve the underlying payment dispute.

Do you review commercial leases for tenants? Yes. We review leases for both landlords and tenants, focusing on rent, term, maintenance, repairs, insurance, and default provisions.

Contractors and suppliers: see how we help with vendor qualification and local counsel →