Construction projects rarely go exactly as planned. Timelines shift, costs change, and expectations don’t always line up. When communication breaks down, a simple disagreement can become a dispute that stops a project in its tracks.
Learn more about how our firm handles these issues on our Construction Disputes page.
1. Non-Payment and Delayed Payment
Payment issues are the most common source of conflict in BC construction. Contractors may not be paid for completed work, or owners may dispute invoices, progress claims, or change orders.
This often happens when:
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the work is completed but not approved
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the scope wasn’t clearly documented
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there are disagreements over extras or deficiencies
Non-payment disputes often lead to builders liens or breach-of-contract claims.
See our Debt Collection and Contract Disputes pages for more.
2. Builders Liens
When contractors or subcontractors aren’t paid, they may file a builders lien against the property.
Liens protect the right to payment, but they can delay financing, sales, or further construction.
Common lien-related disputes involve:
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unpaid invoices
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contested holdbacks
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unclear scopes of work
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subcontractor disagreements
If you’re navigating a lien, visit our Builders Liens page.
3. Deficiencies and Quality of Work
Owners may claim the work isn’t up to standard, while contractors may argue the issue falls outside the original scope.
These disputes often involve:
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structural or workmanship issues
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water damage or leaks
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incomplete work at project completion
Clear documentation can help prevent these disputes, but they remain extremely common.
4. Project Delays
Delays happen frequently, especially on multi-trade projects. Disputes arise when the delay causes added cost or puts the project off schedule.
Delays can be caused by:
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late material delivery
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subcontractor scheduling issues
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unforeseen site conditions
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weather
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extended permitting timelines
The key issue is usually whether the delay was avoidable and who is responsible for cost overruns.
5. Scope Changes and Extras
Disputes over scope changes often occur when:
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extra work is completed without written approval
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change orders aren’t documented
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each party interprets the contract differently
This is one of the easiest disputes to avoid with clear, written agreements.
6. Contractor–Subcontractor Disagreements
Conflicts between contractors and subcontractors can cause major project delays.
These disagreements usually involve:
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payment issues
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scheduling conflicts
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workmanship
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responsibility for deficiencies
Many of these disputes overlap with Contract Disputes and Builders Liens.
When to Get Legal Advice
Construction disputes can escalate quickly. Early legal advice can help you:
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understand your rights under the contract
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determine whether a lien is valid
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protect your right to payment
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avoid delays and added costs
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resolve the issue before it becomes a lawsuit
If you’re dealing with a construction dispute in BC, McKechnie & Company can help.
Visit our Construction Disputes page or contact us for guidance.