Construction Disputes in BC: What to Do and When to Get Help

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:

  • the work is completed but not approved
  • the scope wasn’t clearly documented
  • 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:

  • unpaid invoices
  • contested holdbacks
  • unclear scopes of work
  • 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:

  • structural or workmanship issues
  • water damage or leaks
  • 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:

  • late material delivery
  • subcontractor scheduling issues
  • unforeseen site conditions
  • weather
  • 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:

  • extra work is completed without written approval
  • change orders aren’t documented
  • 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:

  • payment issues
  • scheduling conflicts
  • workmanship
  • 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:

  • understand your rights under the contract
  • determine whether a lien is valid
  • protect your right to payment
  • avoid delays and added costs
  • resolve the issue before it becomes a lawsuit
Get Legal Advice

Talk to a Construction Dispute Lawyer

If you’re dealing with a construction dispute in BC, McKechnie & Company can help.

Our Construction Disputes Services
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