A federal court just upheld EPA’s move to label key PFAS chemicals as hazardous under CERCLA — opening the door to expanded cleanup and cost‑recovery actions. Contractors may face new scrutiny over PFAS exposure, disposal, and contract risk. 

➡️ Read the Full Cotney Brief Issue 17 (Members Only)

New federal tariffs — including a 50% tariff on select Canadian construction materials — are driving pricing uncertainty across steel, aluminum, copper, cement, paint, plywood, and fiber cable. Contractors may face shorter quote periods, surcharges, and shifting supplier pricing. This issue also covers a key case where a contractor lost a multimillion‑dollar claim due to late notice, introduces a Daily Report Presumption clause to strengthen documentation, and explains how growing community opposition is becoming a major construction risk affecting permits, schedules, and utility commitments.

➡️ Read the Full Cotney Brief Issue 16 (Members Only)

Florida’s latest construction law, CS/CS/HB 803, changes how contractors handle small residential projects and temporary storm‑protection barriers. While some work under $7,500 may now qualify for permit exemptions, the rules include important limitations tied to flood‑zone status and scope. This issue also introduces an AI‑assisted Initial Decision Maker clause designed to speed up dispute resolution on construction projects. URCA members receive contract‑ready language and practical guidance for July 2026 compliance.

➡️ Read the Full Cotney Brief Issue 14 (Members Only)

The NLRB has reinstated a more contractor‑friendly joint‑employer rule, reducing risk for general contractors and construction managers. This issue also explains a Florida ruling confirming that pre‑bid site visits do not create subcontractor status or workers’ comp immunity. URCA members gain clarity on employment boundaries, site‑access liability, and best practices for managing layered workforce relationships.

➡️ Read the Full Cotney Brief Issue 13 (Members Only)

Ohio now requires E‑Verify for nonresidential construction hiring, with penalties for noncompliance. This issue also covers a federal case emphasizing contractors’ duty to ask questions when plans contain inconsistencies. URCA members receive compliance checklists, hiring guidance, and contract‑ready language for avoiding costly disputes.

➡️ Read the Full Cotney Brief Issue 12 (Members Only)

The Department of Labor is proposing a return to a more predictable “economic reality” test for independent contractor classification. This issue also highlights a major Supreme Court ruling limiting presidential tariff authority. URCA members get early insights into how these changes may affect subcontractor relationships, project pricing, and compliance planning.

➡️ Read the Full Cotney Brief Issue 11 (Members Only)

Illinois’ new rooftop safety law creates obligations for contractors working on low‑slope roofs, including skylight protections and parapet requirements. This issue also explains how to avoid disputes over excess materials left at the end of a project. URCA members receive sample contract language to clarify scope and protect against surprise liability.

➡️ Read the Full Cotney Brief Issue 10 (Members Only)

California now requires contractors to accept cancellations via email and include specific contact information in home improvement contracts. This issue also covers a Florida case showing that winning a lawsuit doesn’t guarantee full recovery of attorney’s fees. URCA members get contract‑ready language and compliance tips for multi‑state operations.

➡️ Read the Full Cotney Brief Issue 9 (Members Only)

The historic 2025 federal shutdown created major delays in inspections, approvals, and federally funded projects. This issue also explores how data center construction is inflating commercial roofing numbers nationwide, masking slower activity in other sectors. URCA members receive guidance on forecasting, scheduling, and protecting margins in an uneven market.

➡️ Read the Full Cotney Brief Issue 8 (Members Only)

OSHA’s multi‑employer citation policy continues to create confusion and inconsistent enforcement on construction sites. This issue highlights proposed reforms aimed at aligning responsibility with actual control, reducing arbitrary citations, and improving jobsite collaboration. URCA members gain access to the full NCPI white paper and recommendations for strengthening safety documentation.

➡️ Read the Full Cotney Brief Issue 7 (Members Only)