In New York City, where buildings stand shoulder to shoulder, construction projects often require access to adjoining properties. But what happens when a property owner refuses to grant access? Under Real Property Actions and Proceedings Law (“RPAPL”) § 881, developers and property owners may petition the court for a license to enter...

Insurance in Access Agreements: Protecting Property Owners and Contractors
Granting construction access to a neighboring property comes with inherent risks, including structural damage, personal injury, and environmental hazards. Insurance provisions in access agreements serve as a safeguard, ensuring that any damages, claims, or liabilities arising from...

What Is an Access Agreement for Construction in NYC?
In New York City, construction projects often require access to neighboring properties. Whether for safety measures, repairs, or structural work, an access agreement is the legal document that allows a property owner or developer to enter or use a portion of an adjoining property temporarily.
Navigating RPAPL 881: Lessons from Thomas Anthony Holdings LLC v. Goodbody
In the dynamic landscape of NY real estate and construction law, access to neighboring properties often becomes a critical issue. A recent case, Thomas Anthony Holdings LLC v. Goodbody, 216 A.D.3d 538 (2023), underscores the complexities involved in securing access under RPAPL § 881 and highlights the court’s approach in balancing competing...
Understanding Monetary Compensation for Granting Construction Access in NYC
In New York City’s dense urban landscape, construction projects often require access to neighboring properties. Whether it’s for scaffolding, crane operations, or safety measures, property owners may be approached by developers or contractors seeking temporary access. A common point of negotiation in these scenarios is monetary compensation. At James J. Corbett, P.C.,...
Debunking the Myth of “Standard Terms” in Construction Access Agreements or Access Licenses
When it comes to construction projects in New York City, property owners, developers, and contractors often believe that there are “standard terms” for construction access agreements that can be universally applied to any situation. This misconception can lead to disputes, delays, and even legal battles, as every construction project has its own...
Enforcing Construction Access Agreements or Access Licenses in New York City: Misconceptions, Realities, and Best Practices
Construction projects in New York City often require access to neighboring properties for staging, scaffolding, or safety measures. While construction access agreement or license agreement or access licenses or construction access license agreements are essential for clarifying the rights and obligations of both parties, misconceptions about how these agreements are enforced can...

What you should Know About New York Scaffold Law
New York State's Labor Law 240, also known as the Scaffold Law, is a crucial piece of legislation that provides important protections for construction workers. The law specifically addresses the issue of falling hazards, which are a significant risk factor for workers on construction sites. Here is what you need to...

Common Causes of Construction Site Injuries
Any New York construction worker can tell you they have a dangerous job, and their anecdotes are backed up by statistics from the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
According to OSHA, working in construction is one of the most dangerous careers in the country, where about...

What to Include in a Contract with a Building Contractor
A written construction contract outlines the scope of work for a construction project in a legal agreement between a customer and a general contractor.
It outlines their rights and duties, including subcontracting, how they will be paid, the specifics of the project, and modification orders. It provides protection...