Court Says Ensuing Loss Requires More Than Increased Susceptibility

Joshua Tumen | Property Insurance Law Observer In Stella Property Development and Event Production, LLC v. Auto-Owners Insurance Company, 2026 WL 221489 (W.D. Pa. 2026), the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania denied summary judgment as to the applicability of the subject property policy’s (i) wear and tear and (ii) inadequate maintenance… Continue reading Court Says Ensuing Loss Requires More Than Increased Susceptibility

California Construction’s New Era: Comply with Mandatory Dispute Resolution Process or Risk a Work Stoppage

Allison Etkin, Daniel Miktus and Emma Nargi | Akerman Beginning January 1, 2026, California has a new mandatory statutory procedure governing private construction disputes, and failure to comply may give contractors the right to suspend work without penalty. The new law provides a step-by-step procedure and defined timelines that both owners and contractors must follow… Continue reading California Construction’s New Era: Comply with Mandatory Dispute Resolution Process or Risk a Work Stoppage

Understanding Washington’s New Solicited Real Property Act

Kelly Rutledge and Joe Delaney | Ahead of Schedule Effective January 1, 2026, Washington’s newly enacted RCW 61.40.010 (the “Solicited Real Property Act”) introduces a suite of statutory protections for property owners in transactions initiated through direct solicitation. While many prospective purchasers will be impacted, this provision will have meaningful implications for real estate purchasers… Continue reading Understanding Washington’s New Solicited Real Property Act

California’s Retention Reform on Private Construction Projects

Michael T. McKeeman | The Construction Seyt Retention has long been a contentious issue in California construction. Traditionally, owners withheld retention of 10% from each progress payment until completion, arguing it was necessary to ensure performance, quality and timely delivery. Contractors and subcontractors, however, often struggled with cash flow, payroll, and material costs while waiting… Continue reading California’s Retention Reform on Private Construction Projects

The Right Appraiser or Umpire for The Insurance Appraisal Process

Joe Gulick | Claims Journal In the world of insurance valuation disputes, the selection of the appraiser and umpire can significantly influence the outcome of an appraisal. These professionals play an important role in resolving disagreements over the value of damages, and their competence, impartiality, and negotiation skills are essential for achieving fair awards. Whether… Continue reading The Right Appraiser or Umpire for The Insurance Appraisal Process