TRUST YOUR GUT: Chapter Eight, Set Realistic Dates Build Buffers Avoid Lawsuits

About this episode

In this episode, Karalynn Cromeens discusses the importance of setting realistic project dates and avoiding legal disputes in construction.

This episode is a reading from Karalynn's latest book, Trust Your Gut . Contractor Randy promises a tight custom home finish. The supply chain has other plans. Then the Texas freeze blows it past summer. Homeowners rack up extra rent, school tuition, mortgage, and sue for damages. The settlement bleeds Randy cash. Don't make this mistake. Quote estimated dates, not guarantees. Pad buffers, quote longer, and finish early like a boss. Blast regular updates, tie payments to phases, add non-consequential damages clause. Moral of the story: Under-promise, over-deliver. Keep projects on track, clients happy, and lawsuits away! Grab Karalynn's new book Trust Your Gut here . Follow Karalynn Cromeens on Facebook here . Follow Karalynn Cromeens on Instagram here . Follow Karalynn Cromeens on LinkedIn here . Watch the show on YouTube here . Learn more about The Cromeens Law Firm here , and subscribe to our newsletter ! Key Takeaways 1. Include clauses for price increases and delays 2. Materials labor weather hit projects hard 3. Change orders adjust terms when needed 4. Homeowner pays extras beyond control 5. No provision means you lose money or business Timestamped Overview 0:25 The saga…

People in this episode

Host: Karalynn Cromeens

Topics covered

• contract management
• project timelines
• legal advice for contractors
• homeowner disputes
• risk management

Keywords

• contractor
• supply chain
• lawsuits
• project management
• homeowners
• settlement
• change orders
• price increases

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: The Cromeens Law Firm

Books & works: Trust Your Gut

Places: Texas

More episodes of Construction Legal Made Easy

• Stop Working When They Don't Pay · June 8, 2026 · 6 min
• TRUST YOUR GUT: Chapter Thirteen, Ignoring a Demand Letter Costed Him $100,000 · June 1, 2026 · 18 min
• TRUST YOUR GUT: Chapter Twelve, Stop Warranty Work On Unpaid Jobs · May 25, 2026 · 10 min
• Stop Gambling with OSHA: Practical Safety for Small and Mid-Sized Contractors · May 18, 2026 · 30 min
• TRUST YOUR GUT: Chapter Eleven, Get Paid When Clients Cancel · May 11, 2026 · 9 min
• TRUST YOUR GUT: Chapter Ten, How a Standards Clause Protects Your Work · May 4, 2026 · 10 min