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Government of Saskatchewan Publications here:
Saskatchewan Builders’ Lien Act
Saskatchewan Builders’ Lien Regulations
Please contact the SCDRO with any questions.
Prompt Payment ensures that contractors and subcontractors are paid in a timely manner for their services rendered on a construction project. The legislation establishes specific timelines for payment to avoid delays and disputes.
Adjudication is a rapid dispute resolution process available under the Builders’ Lien Act. It allows parties to resolve payment disputes quickly and efficiently without the need for lengthy court proceedings.
If you don’t have a physical or written contract, it’s important to understand that in Saskatchewan, as in most jurisdictions, a valid contract must involve an offer, acceptance, and consideration. Contracts can be formed even without a written document. Verbal agreements, and in some cases, even exchanges through emojis, can create a legal obligation between parties.
However, it’s crucial to note that determining the specific terms of a verbally formed contract can be challenging. In many instances, if a quote was accepted or if parties have agreed to commence work, it’s likely that a contract has already been established.
If you find yourself uncertain about the validity of your contract, it’s advisable to seek guidance from legal counsel. They can provide clarity and guidance on the legal merits of your situation.
Yes, damages can be claimed under the Act. In the adjudication process, it is crucial to provide sufficient evidence to support the damages claimed, such as documentation, records, and other relevant information, to strengthen your case.
No, you are not required to have legal representation to utilize adjudication. However, it is advisable to seek legal advice to understand the complexities of the process and to ensure that your interests are adequately represented.
If your invoice fails to meet the specified criteria outlined by the Builders’ Lien Act, it may still be considered valid as it represented an invoice, although it is crucial to adhere to the requirements to ensure that your invoice holds legal weight and can be enforceable under the Act.
A Notice of Non-Payment serves as a formal communication indicating that payment has not been made or will not be made as specified. It acts as a crucial trigger for further actions in the payment dispute resolution process within the construction chain.
Adjudication offers a swift resolution process, allowing your company to address payment issues promptly and avoid prolonged disruptions to cash flow. It provides a mechanism for obtaining interim payments and ensures that disputes are resolved in a timely manner, thereby safeguarding your business interests.
Adjudication provides a cost-effective and expedited resolution process, enabling construction companies to maintain project momentum and financial stability. It offers a structured framework for resolving conflicts, thereby minimizing the impact of disputes on your company’s operations and overall project delivery.
Adjudication serves as a reliable mechanism for interpreting contractual provisions and resolving ambiguities, providing your company with a clear understanding of its contractual rights and obligations. By offering a transparent process, it aids in minimizing uncertainty and fostering a conducive environment for effective project management.
It is imperative to compile comprehensive documentation, including contracts, invoices, and correspondence, to support your position during the Adjudication process. Additionally, obtaining legal guidance and understanding the procedural requirements can significantly enhance your company’s preparation and presentation in the dispute resolution proceedings.
Yes, Adjudication can facilitate amicable dispute resolution, thereby preserving the business relationship between your construction company and project owners. By offering a swift and fair resolution process, it helps in minimizing conflicts and fostering constructive communication, which is essential for maintaining long-term partnerships and securing future business opportunities.
When an Owner issues a Notice of Non-Payment to a contractor, the Owner is not obligated to make payment as indicated in the Notice. It is essential for the contractor to assess the situation and respond appropriately in accordance with the established procedures.
Upon receiving a Notice of Non-Payment from an owner, the contractor is required to either issue a Notice of Non-Payment to their sub-contractors or make the necessary payments to them within the specified timeframe. When a contractor issues a Notice of Non-Payment to a sub-contractor, they are obligated to initiate the adjudication process within 21 days, involving either the owner or the sub-contractor, to resolve the payment dispute in a timely manner.
A sub-contractor can expect either payment or a Notice of Non-Payment within 35 days. If a Notice of Non-Payment is received, sub-contractor may initiate an Adjudication, although the contractor is required to undertake adjudication within 21 days, either with the Owner or the sub-contractor.
A Notice of Adjudication is required with 21 days of issuing a Notice of Non-Payment when a contractor or sub-contractor, have parties below them in the payment chain. It serves as a formal step to escalate the matter and initiate the adjudication process for seeking a timely resolution.
Understanding the invoicing timelines, frequency of invoicing, and payment terms between the owner and the prime contractor is critical for sub-contractors to ensure timely and accurate compensation for their work. It allows sub-contractors to align their billing cycles with the prime contractor’s invoicing schedule, reducing the risk of payment delays and potential disputes. By being aware of the payment terms, sub-contractors can anticipate the expected payment dates and effectively manage their cash flow, thereby maintaining financial stability throughout the project’s duration. This understanding also enables sub-contractors to proactively address any discrepancies in invoicing or payment processes, fostering transparency and trust within the construction chain.