Law & Mortar
Law & Mortar
Law and Mortar Episode 115
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Rising costs, tariffs, and AI are changing the estimating environment—and contractors need to know where the risks are before they sign the contract.
In Episode 115 of Law and Mortar, Trent Cotney and John Kenney discuss increasing fuel and material costs, including the potential impact of new tariffs on Canadian cement, paint, varnishes, wood products, and other construction materials.
John explains why contractors may see moderate price increases over the coming quarters even without widespread material shortages, while Trent focuses on protecting contractors through proper contract language, bidding practices, and due diligence.
The conversation also examines how tariffs on materials such as concrete can affect roofing contractors indirectly through project costs, schedules, and delays—even when those materials aren't part of the roofing scope.
Plus, John announces his Advanced Estimating Workshop in Lakeland, Florida, November 17–18, and the episode closes with an important discussion about AI in estimating.
Topics include:
- Rising fuel and construction material costs
- Tariffs and their potential impact on contractors
- Protecting bids against price escalation and project uncertainty
- Recognizing project red flags before signing a contract
- Due diligence and contractual risk protection
- Advanced estimating strategies
- Where AI can—and cannot—help estimators
- Why human judgment and verification remain essential
AI can organize information and improve efficiency, but it cannot see every variable that makes an estimate successful. In today's market, technology should support contractor judgment—not replace it.
Connect with the Hosts
Trent Cotney – Construction Attorney & Partner, Adams and Reese LLP
Nationally recognized construction attorney serving the roofing and construction industries.
John Kenney – CEO, Cotney Consulting Group
Helping roofing contractors improve operations, profitability, estimating, leadership, and business performance.
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