Construction law is a general reference to various areas of law as applied to the design, engineering, and construction of buildings—including residential buildings and commercial buildings—as well as bridges, roads, pipelines, railroads, water transmission and distribution systems, electrical power transmission systems, sewerage systems, and other structures.

In addition to the law governing the filing and removal of mechanic’s and materialmen’s liens (also known as contractor liens), construction law includes contract law, employment law, personal injury law, insurance law, zoning law, and real estate law.

In New Mexico (NM), construction law encompasses a wide range of legal areas as they relate to the construction industry. This includes the regulation of mechanic's and materialmen's liens, which are legal claims made by contractors and suppliers for payment for work performed or materials provided. New Mexico statutes outline specific procedures for filing and enforcing these liens to ensure proper payment. Additionally, construction contracts in NM are governed by contract law principles, which dictate the terms and conditions between parties involved in construction projects. Employment law is also relevant, as it covers the rights and obligations of construction workers and employers, including wage laws and workplace safety regulations. Personal injury law comes into play when there are accidents or injuries on construction sites, holding parties accountable for negligence. Insurance law is important for managing risks associated with construction projects, and zoning and real estate laws impact the use of land and the approval process for construction projects. Together, these legal areas form the framework that governs the construction industry in New Mexico.