Who you deal with is more important than airtight contract language.
I never thought the day would come when I singled out a lawyer for praise, but that day arrived last Nov. 8. That's when I gave a presentation on contractor business practices at a conference sponsored by Roofing Contractor and Walls & Ceilings magazines (like PM, published by BNP Media Co.).
Preceding me was attorney John Alfs, a construction litigation specialist with the Troy, Mich., law firm of Cox, Hodgman & Giarmarco. He spoke on the topic “Protecting Yourself Through Intelligent Contracts,” and made what may be the most profound statement I've ever heard in a business seminar. Said Alfs: