Your rights
How the Construction Act Protects Bricklayers in Leeds
The Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996 was designed specifically to protect subcontractors like bricklayers from late payment by main contractors. In Leeds and across the Yorkshire region, late payment remains one of the biggest challenges in construction.
As a bricklayer working in Leeds, you have specific statutory rights. When you submit an invoice, the main contractor has a strict 5-day window to issue a Payment Notice. Miss that deadline and the full invoiced amount becomes payable.
What is a Default Payment Notice?
A Default Payment Notice is a formal document under Section 110B. When a contractor misses the 5-day Payment Notice window, you can issue one to make the full invoiced amount payable — no right of defence.
Submit your invoice or application for payment
Payment Due Date passes (30 days, or per contract)
5-day Payment Notice deadline passes without a notice
You issue a Default Payment Notice for the full amount
After you send it
What Happens Next?
Suspend work
Under Section 112, stop working after 7 days’ written notice
Adjudication
Under Section 108, get a binding decision within 28 days
Statutory interest
Claim 8% above base rate under the Late Payment Act 1998
FAQ
Common Questions
How long does a main contractor have to pay a bricklayer in Leeds?
Under the Scheme for Construction Contracts, if there are no written payment terms, the main contractor must pay within 30 days of the invoice date. They must also issue a Payment Notice within 5 days of the Payment Due Date. If they fail to do either, a bricklayer in Leeds can issue a Default Payment Notice for the full amount.
Can I issue a Default Payment Notice without a written contract?
Yes. If there is no written contract, the Scheme for Construction Contracts applies automatically. This actually works in your favour — the Scheme provides clear, enforceable deadlines that protect subcontractors.
What if the main contractor disputes the amount?
If they failed to issue a Payment Notice within the 5-day window, they cannot dispute the amount. The full invoiced sum becomes the ‘notified sum’ and is payable in full.
Do I need a solicitor to issue a Default Payment Notice?
No. You have the legal right to issue the notice yourself. Our tool generates a professionally formatted document citing the correct legislation.
Can I suspend work if the main contractor doesn’t pay?
Yes. Under Section 112 of the Construction Act, if payment is not received by the Final Date for Payment, you have the right to suspend performance after giving 7 days’ written notice.
What is the penalty for late payment in UK construction?
Under the Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998, you can claim statutory interest at 8% above the Bank of England base rate, plus a fixed sum of £40–£100 depending on the debt amount.