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Contractor Debt Recovery in the Construction Industry

As a contractor in the construction industry, it is important to understand the process of debt recovery in case you face a situation where you are owed money by a Builder or another contractor. In this article, we will summarise effective and efficient way that contractors in Brisbane should consider when it comes to getting paid for their contract works.
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The Building Industry Fairness (Security of Payment) Act 2017

The Building Industry Fairness (Security of Payment) Act 2017 is the primary law that contractors in Brisbane should know.

Perhaps because Brisbane has the highest density of population, contractors more commonly enforce debt recovery compared to the rest of the State.

The Queensland Security of Payments Act is the most efficient and cost effective method for Brisbane contractors with their debt recovery.

This law provides a favourable framework for contractors to get paid.

This is how it works.

If the Builder fails to provide a payment schedule then he cannot introduce new reasons for not paying the claim during the adjudication process or in court. That is because under the Building Industry Fairness (Security of Payment) Act QLD 2017, the Builder cannot provide particulars for reasons for withholding if those reasons were not particularised in the payment schedule. That is, the builder is limited to relying on his reasons for withholding identified in the payment schedule.

This means the Builder will more likely be liable to pay the full amount, and you will have improved opportunity to succeed in your adjudication application, recover the money as a debt in court, or take action to suspend work.

Other methods for Construction Debt Recovery in Brisbane

Legal Proceedings

If the parties are unable to resolve the dispute through adjudication, they may choose to pursue the debt via legal proceedings. In this case, the matter will be heard by a court and a judge will make a determination.

Subcontractors’ Charges

Subcontractors’ charges allow subcontractors to place a charge on a property in the event that they are owed money for work carried out. This charge acts as a security for the payment of the debt and can be used to recover the debt in the event that the contractor does not pay.

Suspension of Work

If a contractor does not respond to a payment claim or does not make payment, the claimant may choose to take action to suspend work on site. Suspension of work can have a significant impact on the progress of a project and may result in significant delays and additional costs.

Practical Considerations for Contractor's Debt Recovery

If you’re struggling to recover a debt for construction work, remember, you have options. Here are a few practical things that you can do:

Tips for Debt Recovery for Contractors in Brisbane Queensland

  • Understand your rights under the Queensland Security of Payment law and the procedure for enforcement.
  • Develop an ongoing working relationship with a construction lawyer that you can trust.
  • Keep accurate records of all payments and payment claims
  • Make prompt and compliant payment claims
  • Conduct due diligence and satisfy yourself that your Builder is likely to pay.
  • If you are not paid on time, immediately consider using adjudication to resolve payment disputes

Get Expert Advice from Construction Lawyer in Brisbane

Construction debt recovery in Brisbane can be a complex and stressful process, but it’s important to know that there are options available to help you resolve the issue. By understanding your rights and obligations, you can take the necessary steps to protect your interests and ensure a positive outcome.

If you want to enforce a recent debt that is more than $30,000 then call Construction Lawyer Brisbane for a free 15 minute consultation to understand your rights to get paid.

John Dela Cruz
John Dela Cruz
John Dela Cruz is the Principal Lawyer of Construction Lawyer Brisbane.
In 2011, John founded the firm, bringing with him extensive, invaluable experience from having held several industry management roles.
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Home building contracts

clb home building contract

home building contract nsw

fair trade contract

home building act

Home building compensation fund

building warranty

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Contractor Debt Recovery in the Construction Industry
Contractor Debt Recovery in the Construction Industry