When a payment dispute needs a decision.

A route designed for construction disputes

Statutory adjudication is a process for deciding specified construction disputes on a shorter timetable than ordinary litigation. Its availability, procedure and effect depend on the governing regime.

Do not assume that every dispute, every contract or every time period is eligible. The relevant authority’s procedure and the statute must be read together. An adjudication decision can have an interim binding effect while other proceedings remain possible.

Build a chronology before a bundle

Begin with the contract and the specific payment issue. Record when work was supplied, when invoices were given, which amounts were paid and what was disputed. Connect each point to the document that supports it.

• The relevant contract, scope and approved changes.
• Invoices and evidence of giving or receipt.
• Payment records and allocation of partial payments.
• Notices, correspondence and service records.
• The relief sought and the calculation supporting it.

Procedure is part of the work

The nominating or adjudication authority, appointment process, permitted disputes, delivery deadlines and fees vary. Ontario’s current adjudication regulation is O. Reg. 264/25; old procedural summaries may refer to a revoked regulation.

Starting adjudication does not mean it is safe to ignore a lien deadline or another preservation step. Check those rights separately with an adviser.

Prepare without overstating the outcome

A clear evidence record helps someone assess the issue. It does not guarantee a favourable decision or collection of the money. For a live dispute, confirm the available route and next deadline with a qualified professional.