Adjudication and prompt payment provisions of the Construction Act came into force on
October 1, 2019. Certain disputes can now be referred to adjudication, including:
- The valuation of services or materials;
- Payments under a contract, including in respect of a change order;
- Notices of non-payment;
- Holdbacks; and
- Any other matter that the parties to the adjudication agree to.
(For details, please refer to section 13.5(1) of the Construction Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. C. 30)
What is Adjudication?
Adjudication is a dispute resolution process that allows disputants to present their arguments to an independent adjudicator, who will make a decision that can be filed with the court.
Benefits of Adjudication
Adjudications are:
- Quick. A decision will be made in 39 to 46 days (unless the parties agree to an extension).
- Cost-effective and relatively inexpensive.
- Meant to keep cash flowing. Payments ordered must be made within ten days.
- Available as a right. A party to a construction contract can commence an adjudication without the other party’s consent.
- Enforceable.
How to Commence an Adjudication
Adjudications must be commenced through ODACC, the body responsible for administering adjudications and training and qualifying adjudicators.
