This past Blitz Build season, the Home Builders Foundation (“HBF”) once again brought together builders, tradespeople, volunteer crews, and sponsors from across the Front Range for their signature program: Blitz Build. From May through October, Blitz Build weekends give HBF clients, those living with physical disabilities, access to something many of us take for granted: […]
Colorado Construction Litigation Blog
When a national homebuilder faced a premises liability and negligence lawsuit in Colorado, HHMR’s Andrew Vogelgesang stepped in to methodically analyze the claims and protect the client’s interests. The plaintiff alleged a trip-and-fall incident on a public sidewalk and named several parties as defendants. Plaintiff’s counsel supplied photographs of the alleged defect, and Andrew used […]
A cautionary tale for contractors and their counsel: if you dismiss an indemnity claim with prejudice, do not expect a do-over. In Layton Construction Co. v. Shaw Contract Flooring Services, Inc., 409 P.3d 602 (Colo. App. 2016), the Colorado Court of Appeals reaffirmed the reach of claim preclusion in construction disputes, holding that a contractor […]
In the intricate world of construction, builders often rely heavily on insurance brokers to secure appropriate insurance coverage, and trust that they will be protected against unforeseen liabilities. However, a recent Colorado district court decision serves as a stark reminder of the perils associated with such reliance, especially when the builder’s expectations and communications with […]
Higgins, Hopkins, McLain & Roswell, LLC (“HHMR”) is excited to announce several significant developments as the firm transitions into an exciting new chapter of growth and innovation. Sheri Roswell, one of the firm’s founding members, is stepping out of ownership to serve as “Of Counsel,” continuing her vital work with clients and strengthening relationships that […]
In the recent case of BKV Barnett, LLC v. Electric Drilling Technologies, LLC, the United States District Court for the District of Colorado dealt with significant legal issues concerning indemnification and insurance obligations in construction agreements. The ruling, handed down on September 26, 2024, serves as a crucial reminder of the limitations imposed by Colorado’s […]
Construction projects are inherently complex, and insurance coverage plays a crucial role in managing risks, especially when unforeseen issues arise. The case of Acuity v. Kinsale demonstrates the tangled web of insurance obligations, especially when multiple insurers provide coverage for a single event. This case, involving Monarch Stucco, Inc., Acuity, and Kinsale Insurance Company, sheds […]
In the case of Ralph L. Wadsworth Construction Company, LLC v. Regional Rail Partners (2024 COA 78), the Colorado Court of Appeals reviewed a complex contract dispute related to the design and construction of a transit rail line. The project, commissioned by the Regional Transportation District (“RTD”), involved a collaboration between Regional Rail Partners and […]
Construction contractors in the market for insurance coverage have few legal protections if their insurance agent fails to provide insurance that covers likely claims against the contractor. As construction defect lawsuits continue to be a frequent occurrence throughout Colorado, we have seen an increase in the number and complexity of coverage endorsements and exclusions in […]
Colleagues and friends: I am pleased to share with you that I have been recognized in the 2023 edition of The Best Lawyers in America for my work in construction law. This honor comes as a surprise and is a testament to the dedication and hard work of my team at Higgins, Hopkins, McLain & […]