Addicks Services performed excavation work for a Texas residential development but later claimed it was owed money for extra work and delay costs. The contractor had signed monthly lien waivers that explicitly released all claims for extra work and delays up to each waiver date. The court ruled these waivers were clear and binding, blocking Addicks from pursuing any claims for work done before the final waiver. This means signing a detailed lien waiver can permanently eliminate your right to claim extra compensation.
Never sign a lien waiver that releases 'all claims' for extra work and delays unless you've been fully paid for those items. Courts will enforce the exact language you sign.
Monthly progress payment waivers can bar future claims if they explicitly cover extra work, delays, and other damages. Review each waiver carefully before signing.
If you believe you're owed extra money, resolve it before signing the waiver or negotiate specific carve-outs that exclude disputed amounts from the release.