Get Paid on Time: UK Construction Payment Guides
Problem: Late payments cost UK contractors billions each year. Missed notice dates, unclear deadlines, and poor documentation make it worse. Outcome: Get the templates, calculators, and guides you need to protect your cashflow and get paid on time, every time.
Free downloadable templatesInteractive payment deadline calculatorConstruction Act compliantUsed by UK contractors
Free Resources
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Guide + Templates
Payment Notice & Pay Less Notice Templates
Free UK Construction Act compliant payment notice and pay less notice templates with step-by-step guidance.
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Downloadable Templates
Retention Tracker + Final Account Checklist
Track retention across all your projects and ensure nothing slips through with our final account checklist.
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Interactive Calculator
Payment Deadline Calculator
Calculate your Construction Act payment deadlines instantly. Works with JCT, NEC, and bespoke contracts.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about get paid on time.
What is the Construction Act and why does it matter for payments?
The Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996 (amended 2011) gives contractors the right to stage payments and sets out strict notice deadlines. If clients miss these deadlines, they must pay the full amount applied for. Understanding and tracking these dates protects your cashflow.
What is a Payment Notice and when must it be issued?
A Payment Notice states how much the payer intends to pay and the basis for that calculation. Under the Construction Act, it must be issued within 5 days of the due date (unless the contract specifies otherwise). If no notice is issued, the amount in the application becomes due.
What is a Pay Less Notice?
A Pay Less Notice allows the payer to pay less than the notified sum if they have valid reasons (like defects or contra charges). It must be issued at least 7 days before the final date for payment and must specify the amount to be paid and the basis for calculation.
How do I calculate payment deadlines for my contract?
Payment deadlines depend on your contract type (JCT, NEC, bespoke) and specific terms. Generally: Application date + due date offset = Due Date. Due Date + 5 days = Payment Notice deadline. Final Date - 7 days = Pay Less Notice deadline. Use our free calculator to work out exact dates.
What is retention in construction contracts?
Retention is a percentage (typically 5%) withheld from interim payments as security for defects. Half is usually released at practical completion, the remainder at the end of the defects liability period. Tracking retention across multiple projects is critical for cashflow planning.
Are these templates legally compliant?
Our templates are designed to meet Construction Act requirements and follow industry best practice. However, always check your specific contract terms and consult legal advice for complex situations. The templates are provided as guidance, not legal advice.