It’s Time for BC to Join the Rest of Canada
Payment certainty legislation is already in place across most of Canada. From East Coast to West, here’s a look at national and provincial progress on this issue:
Canada
In collaboration with the construction industry, Public Services and Procurement Canada developed the Federal Prompt Payment for Construction Work Act, which stipulated a window of 28 days for the federal government to pay after contractors submit a proper invoice. This legislation came into effect at the end of 2023.
Nova Scotia
The Builders’ Lien Act was amended to add a prompt payment and adjudication regime, and the name was changed to the Builders’ Lien and Prompt Payment Act. The Act has received royal assent however is pending formal implementation.
Ontario
In 2019, the province implemented legislation for prompt payment and adjudication. The legislation requires payment within specified deadlines and provides adjudication processes for disputes.
Manitoba
A prompt payment regime came into effect in April 2025. The province has also established an Adjudication Authority that is responsible for addressing disputes.
Saskatchewan
The Builders’ Lien (Prompt Payment) Amendment Act came into force in 2022, formally introducing and implementing prompt payment and adjudication processes for the province.
Alberta
The province enacted the Prompt Payment Construction Lien Act in 2022, which formally introduced prompt payment and adjudication regimes.
British Columbia
The Attorney General has directed the Ministry to begin preparing legislation.
