Construction & Renovation:

Question:How can a paralegal and notary in Ontario help if I’m in a contractor dispute over allegedly defective work or non-payment?

Answer:In Ontario, VP Legal Services & Notary helps homeowners and contractors prepare for Small Claims Court and other civil proceedings by reviewing your renovation contract, payment/holdback issues, and the evidence behind alleged defective work or non-payment.  You can often reduce risk by documenting defects (including arranging an independent inspection where appropriate), organizing invoices, change orders, photos, and correspondence, and assessing claims that may include poor workmanship, unjust enrichment, and consumer protection considerations.  If you want next-step guidance on your position and what to do before the case escalates, call (437) 286-1499 to book a free 15-minute consultation.

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Common Disputes Affecting Contractors

Lawsuits alleging a failure to pay a contractor for work performed often lead to a counterclaim alleging failure of the contractor to perform the work in a quality manner. These types of cases are among the most common occuring lawsuits within the Small Claims Court. Unfortunately, without professional representation, these cases also often become hotly contested and problematic due to the many legal issues typically involved.

Note: Please contact VP Legal Services & Notary by phone at: (437) 286-1499 to discuss any specific questions that you may have.

Challenges

Construction law cases can be very challenging to litigate due to the extent of laws involves as well as the extent of evidence usually involved and the need for independent witnesses to inspect and provide expert reports as to what constitutes as proper workmanship and thus whether the trade standards or the contractual specifications for the project were met, valuation of the portion of work properly completed, among other things; and accordingly, even the seasoned legal professional may find construction law cases as burdensome to litigate. Disputes involving construction or renovation projects are often additionally troublesome as contractors and property owners alike will frequently begin a lawsuit without first obtaining proper legal advice.

Additionally, litigation arising from construction or renovation disputes often extends into legal issues beyond allegations of poor quality of work and also include legal issues such as quantum meruit disputes over the value of partially completed work, consumer rights concerns, mitigation requirements, among other issues.