Boes Iron Works, Inc. v. Gee Cee Group, Inc.
206 So. 3d 938 | Louisiana Court of Appeal | 2016
What This Case Means for Subcontractors
Boes Iron Works sued general contractor Gee Cee Group for unpaid invoices. Louisiana courts enforced the state's prompt pay law, requiring contractors to pay subcontractors within 14 days of receiving payment from the owner. The court awarded Boes the full amount owed plus penalties, attorney fees, and costs. This case confirms that subcontractors have strong legal protection in Louisiana to collect payment on time.
Key Takeaways
- •General contractors must pay subcontractors by the 20th of the month following invoice submission—failure triggers automatic penalties under Louisiana law
- •Document everything: submit invoices promptly and keep records of when the contractor receives owner payment, as this starts the 14-day clock
- •If a contractor doesn't pay on time, you can sue for the unpaid amount plus penalties, attorney fees, and court costs—you don't have to wait or negotiate
Payment by the contractor shall be due on or before the 20th day of the month following submission of invoices.
Frequently Asked Question
Can I force my general contractor to pay me on time in Louisiana?
Yes. Louisiana law requires contractors to pay subcontractors by the 20th of the month following invoice submission. If they don't pay within 14 days of receiving owner payment, you can sue for the full amount, penalties, attorney fees, and court costs. The courts will enforce this—you don't need the owner to pay first.
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