Public & Private Works Attorney in Metairie

We Handle Public Works Act Claims and Private Works Act Claims in Louisiana 

At Nicaud & Siemssen Law Firm, our Public and Private Works Act lawyers are skilled, experienced, and committed to delivering top-tier legal guidance and support to clients. We handle the full range of cases that arise under these laws. Clients can rely on our team for experienced advocacy. If you have any questions about a claim under the Public Works Act and/or Private Works Act, we are here to help. Contact our Metairie construction lien attorneys today for a confidential initial consultation.  

Public Works Act in Louisiana 

The Louisiana Public Works Act governs construction projects on projects owned or leased by the state, parishes, municipalities, and other public entities. Because liens cannot attach to public property, the law requires contractors to provide payment and performance bonds to protect subcontractors, suppliers, and laborers. If payment issues arise, claimants can make a claim against the project bond. However, there are very strict notice and filing procedures. Our Metairie construction law attorneys handle Public Works Act cases for general contractors, subcontractors, and laborers. 

Private Works Act in Louisiana 

The Louisiana Private Works Act outlines the rights and obligations of parties involved in privately owned construction projects. It establishes the process for filing construction, material supplier, and mechanics’ liens to secure payment for contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers. The law sets strict deadlines and notice requirements. Notably, the deadline to file a lien varies depending on whether the contractor recorded a Notice of Contract. The law matters. A contractor’s failure to follow the specific requirements of the Private Works Act could result in the loss of rights to enforce a lien. Our Metairie construction lawyer can help you navigate a case under Louisiana’s Private Works Act.  

We Have Extensive Experience With Construction Lien Cases 

Nicaud & Siemssen has effectively handled construction lien cases under Louisiana law for decades.. Our attorneys help contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers protect their payment rights by preparing, filing, and enforcing valid liens. We also defend property owners against improper or exaggerated lien claims. 

Why Trust Our Metairie Attorney for Public and Private Works Acts Cases 

The Public Works Act and Private Works Act are very important tools in establishing liens and privileges on the owner’s property. The Act sets the legal basis for construction liens (mechanics liens). At Nicaud & Siemssen Law Firm, our firm represents contractors, subcontractors, material suppliers, and property owners in their claims of and defenses to liens.  

Public/Private Works Acts: Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the Difference Between the Louisiana Public Works Act and the Private Works Act? 

As the name suggests, the Public Works Act applies to construction projects owned by state or local government entities. On the other hand, the Private Works Act governs privately owned projects. The main material difference is that liens cannot attach to public property. With public jobs, a contracted company must use payment bonds instead.  

How Do I Make a Claim for Unpaid Work on a Public Project in Louisiana? 

Under the Louisiana Public Works Act, contractors, subcontractors, and material suppliers may file a claim against the payment bond posted for the project. You must follow the Act’s notice and filing rules, including recording a timely sworn statement of the amount due. If it is not filed timely or properly, it can be cancelled, and you could lose your lien rights.   

Does the Private Works Act Require Owners to Record a Notice of Contract? 

No. Recording a Notice of Contract under the Private Works Act is optional. With that being said, it is highly recommended for owners. It shortens lien filing deadlines for contractors and suppliers, giving the owner more certainty about potential claims. Without a recorded notice, lien claimants generally have more time to file their liens. It is also recommended for General Contractors for any project where the materials and labor exceed $100,000. Without recording a Notice of Contract for contracts that exceed this amount, the General Contractor loses its right to its lien. 

Contact Our Metairie Public and Private Works Acts Lawyers Today 

At Nicaud & Siemssen Law Firm, our Public Works Act and Private Works Act attorneys have the knowledge and experience that you can trust. If you have questions or concerns about your rights, your responsibilities, or your legal options under Louisiana construction lien law, we are here as a resource that you can trust. Call us now or contact us online for a completely confidential, no obligation consultation. We handle Public Works Act claims and Private Works Act claims throughout Louisiana.