On October 1, 2019, the second set of amendments to the
Construction Lien Act came into force. Now called the
Construction Act, these amendments concern much more than
construction liens and have a serious impact on the entire
construction industry.
These new amendments are designed to improve the cash flow to
contractors and sub-trades working on construction projects so that
they "get paid on time" and also to establish a process
to resolve payment disputes quickly.
What Contracts Does it Apply to?
The Construction Act applies to any contract entered
into by a contractor with a property owner to supply service or
materials to an improvement in respect of any land. The term
"improvement" includes alterations, additions or capital
repairs to the land, any construction or installation on the land
(including mechanical and electrical), and complete or partial
demolition of any building, structure or works on the land.