Construction Industry Advisor
Showing 81–96 of 262 results
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Your contractor’s license: Don’t leave home without it
Fall 2018
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 447
Abstract: The notion of starting work on a project without a license may seem unthinkable. But many contractors have run afoul of licensing issues. This article explains how it can happen, including a summary of an actual court case related to construction licensing. Snider v. Dickinson Elks Building, LLC, 907 N.W.2d 397 (ND 2018)
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Don’t put off creating a well-crafted buy-sell agreement
Fall 2018
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 683
Abstract: The thought of creating a buy-sell agreement may strike a certain amount of trepidation into the hearts of some contractors. But putting off the creation of a well-crafted buy-sell can put a construction company at risk if unexpected circumstances arise. This article explains the purpose, as well as some of the ins and outs, of these important, legally binding documents.
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Business interruption insurance can help mitigate disaster
Fall 2018
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 583
Abstract: A natural disaster could stop any construction company in its tracks or even put it out of business. For this reason, it’s a good idea for contractors to at least consider business interruption insurance. This article discusses how the coverage works and suggests some good questions to ask when shopping for a policy.
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Is it time for a change? Tax reform has expanded availability of accounting methods
Fall 2018
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 928
Abstract: The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act has made more construction companies eligible to use the cash and completed contract accounting methods. This article provides a brief introduction to the tax accounting options available to contractors and reviews some of the factors to consider in determining whether to switch methods. A sidebar looks at the AMT impact of an accounting method change.
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Failing to properly complete Form I-9 can be costly
Summer 2018
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 463
Abstract: Recently, immigration authorities have been cracking down on not only companies that hire those who are in the country illegally, but also businesses that mishandle the paperwork related to Form I-9. This article explains some of the related rules and suggests essential compliance steps for construction companies to follow.
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Attract and retain talent with equity-based compensation
Summer 2018
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 547
Abstract: Today’s contractors aren’t just competing for projects; they’re also competing for a dwindling supply of new management talent and other skilled workers. One way to attract, retain and motivate quality employees is through equity-based compensation. This article discusses two options: phantom stock and stock appreciation rights.
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Contractor controlled insurance may suit some growing companies
Summer 2018
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 654
Abstract: A contractor controlled insurance program (CCIP) can enable construction companies to more closely manage how a given project is covered. But whether implementing one is worthwhile depends on a variety of factors. This article explains how a CCIP works and examines the risks vs. benefits.
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Should you reconsider your entity choice? Tax reform changes the equation
Summer 2018
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 875
Abstract: The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act has many construction company owners thinking about converting their pass-through entities to C corporations. Although some businesses may benefit from doing so, the decision isn’t just a matter of comparing the previous top corporate tax rate with the current one. This article reviews key factors to consider. A sidebar looks at the limits of the recently introduced tax deduction for owners of certain pass-through entities.
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Focus on collaboration: The estimator’s changing role
Spring 2018
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 448
Abstract: Technological innovations and other recent developments are rapidly altering the job of the estimator in construction. In short, estimators are taking on a more collaborative, value-added role. This article looks at some of the most important changes affecting this critically skilled position.
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Lock down financial assets with the right controls
Spring 2018
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 666
Abstract: Many contractors worry so much about petty theft or misuse of equipment that they overlook the home office or job trailer where so much important information is held and so many financial transactions take place. This article describes some ways to lock down financial assets, including dividing up job duties and performing random audits.
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Are you ready for the new revenue recognition standard?
Spring 2018
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 582
Abstract: A new revenue recognition accounting standard is coming soon to calendar-year nonpublic companies that comply with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. Construction businesses that fit this description must be ready. This article explains how the standard works and what steps contractors should take to prepare themselves.
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Public projects – Leverage fringe benefits to reduce costs
Spring 2018
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 880
Abstract: Public construction projects are often subject to prevailing wage laws that govern how and how much contractors must pay their workers. One area that deserves close attention is fringe benefits. This article explains how contractors can leverage fringe benefits to reduce costs and make bids more competitive. But a sidebar warns of the severe consequences of failing to comply with prevailing wage laws.
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3 tips for dealing with design issues
Winter 2018
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 440
Abstract: A contractor’s role is traditionally to implement a design created by an architect or other design professional. But given the vagaries of the industry, it’s not unusual for plans and specifications to be incomplete when construction begins. This article offers three tips on how contractors can deal with design issues while minimizing the risks of being held financially liable for them.
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Exploring the many facets of an ESOP
Winter 2018
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 689
Abstract: Every contractor must consider his or her retirement (and succession), as well as ways to improve employee engagement. One ambitious and somewhat complex way to do it all is by offering an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). This article explores the functionality of these plans, the tax impact and some potential risks to consider.
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We’re covered, right? Additional insured provision doesn’t guarantee protection
Winter 2018
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 553
Abstract: Construction subcontracts often contain provisions requiring a subcontractor to name additional insureds under its commercial general liability policy. But the existence of such a provision is no guarantee that another contractor is indeed protected. This article reviews a recent case demonstrating this danger and offers tips on how to determine one’s level of protection. Cincinnati Insurance Co. v. Harleysville Insurance Co., No. 16-3929-cv (L), October 4, 2017 (2nd Cir.)
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Tax planning – Dig deep to determine the TCJA’s total impact
Winter 2018
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 919
Abstract: The passage of a new tax law in December was intriguing, if not downright exciting, news for most construction company owners. Now that the dust has settled, this article takes a look at some highlights, including reduced tax rates and boosted depreciation deductions. A sidebar points out that some valuable tax breaks, however, have been eliminated or limited.