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ARTICLE · 17 FEBRUARY 2026

Ontario's Construction Act Changes – What You Need To Know In 2026

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On January 1, 2026, numerous major amendments to Ontario's Construction Act came into force.

CanadaLitigation, Mediation & Arbitration
Brian Kuchar
Brian Kuchar
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On January 1, 2026, numerous major amendments to Ontario's Construction Act came into force. These changes reflect years of legislative reform aimed at modernizing payment practices, dispute resolution, holdback administration, and other foundational aspects of construction law in Ontario.

For industry stakeholders who manage projects – whether you are an owner, contractor, subcontractor, or supplier – understanding these changes is essential for cash-flow planning, as well as the avoidance of legal disputes under the Construction Act.

Mandatory Annual Release of Holdback

The most impactful of the new Construction Act changes is likely to be the move to mandatory annual release of holdback.

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