Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1173

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to lender notice of default to contractors regarding a construction loan or financing agreement for an improvement to real property and related procedures for suspending contractors' performance.

Impact

The bill modifies existing property law to require lenders to notify contractors within a specified timeframe when they take actions related to loan defaults, such as exercising a default remedy or failing to fund a draw request. Should a contractor not receive notice from the lender, their security interest in the project could take precedence, thereby protecting contractors from potential losses. This change aims to enhance protections for contractors while clarifying the roles and responsibilities of lenders in construction transactions.

Summary

SB1173 establishes new regulations regarding lender notices of default to contractors involved in construction loans or financing agreements for improvements to real property. The bill mandates lenders to provide written notice to all known contractors and subcontractors when a default occurs on the loan. This requirement ensures that contractors are informed of actions taken by lenders that could impact their work and financial interests, thus promoting transparency in construction financing agreements.

Sentiment

General sentiment around SB1173 seems supportive among contractors and those advocating for strengthening protections in construction contracts. Stakeholders believe the bill will mitigate financial risks for contractors, allowing them the opportunity to pause work without penalty when they are not duly informed by the lender. However, financial institutions may express concerns regarding the additional administrative burdens imposed by this notice requirement and its potential implications for defaults.

Contention

Notable points of contention could arise depending on differing perspectives among contractors and lenders. While contractors may view this bill as a necessary safeguard, lenders might see it as an added encumbrance that may hamper their operations. The bill affects how defaults are communicated and processed, which could lead to discussions about the balance of power in construction financing and the need for equitable treatment of all parties involved.

Companion Bills

TX HB3040

Identical Relating to lender notice to contractors regarding a construction loan or financing agreement for the improvement of real property and related procedures for suspending contractors' and subcontractors' performance.

Previously Filed As

TX SB69

Relating to paid rest breaks for construction employees of construction contractors and subcontractors; providing an administrative penalty.

TX SB28

Relating to paid rest breaks for construction employees of construction contractors and subcontractors; providing an administrative penalty.

TX HB778

Relating to required provision of workers' compensation insurance coverage for employees of building and construction contractors and subcontractors.

TX SB283

Relating to required provision of workers' compensation insurance coverage for employees of building and construction contractors and subcontractors.

TX HB3485

Relating to a contractor's or subcontractor's right to elect not to proceed with additional work under a contract.

TX HB2022

Relating to residential construction liability.

TX SB873

Relating to residential construction liability.

TX HB3844

Relating to certain procedural requirements for public improvement districts and transfers of property located in public improvement districts.

TX SB1958

Relating to certain procedural requirements for public improvement districts and transfers of property located in public improvement districts.

TX HB1787

Relating to the method used to select engineers and general contractors for certain state highway construction projects.

Similar Bills

CA SB597

Labor-related liabilities: direct contractor and subcontractor.

CA SB727

Labor-related liabilities: direct contractor.

CA AB1701

Labor-related liabilities: original contractor.

CA AB2696

Labor-related liabilities: direct contractor and subcontractor.

CA SB61

Private works of improvement: retention payments.

CA AB1565

Labor-related liabilities: direct contractor.

CA AB1121

Public works: ineligibility list.

CA AB3290

The Subletting and Subcontracting Fair Practices Act.