When does this invoice actually have to be paid, and when can you stop work?

Sound familiar?

• “They've not issued a payment notice and it's past the final date. What can I do?”
• “They're saying they don't have to pay until the main contractor pays them.”
• “I want to stop work but I don't know what notice I need to give.”
• “The contract says 60 days from month-end. Is that even legal?”

What this tool does

Applies the Construction Act 1996 (as amended) payment and notice deadlines to your dates. It tells you the due date, the final date for payment, and when you have the right to suspend performance for non-payment.

What the law actually says

• •The Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996 sets statutory payment timescales. A payment notice must be issued no later than five days after the due date.
• •If no valid notice is issued, the sum you applied for becomes the 'notified sum', and they must pay it by the final date for payment.
• •Pay-when-paid clauses are unenforceable for most construction work. The client paying you is not dependent on anyone paying them.

What to do next

• Want to suspend work? The eight-day notice rule
• What a pay less notice actually has to contain
• Calculate overdue interest: Late Payment Calculator