Service
Payment Schedules
Received a payment claim you don't agree with? How you respond — and how fast — determines whether you keep the right to dispute it at all.
What a payment schedule actually does
A payment schedule is your formal response to a payment claim under the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 (NSW). It states the amount you propose to pay (the scheduled amount) and, if that's less than what was claimed, the reasons why. Getting a valid payment schedule out on time is what preserves your right to dispute a claim — miss the deadline, and you become liable to pay the full claimed amount.
We prepare payment schedules for principals, head contractors and developers who need to respond quickly and defensibly to a payment claim.
When it's due
A payment schedule must generally be provided within the time required by your contract, or 10 business days after the payment claim is served — whichever is earlier. There's no flexibility built into this deadline, which is why fast turnaround matters as soon as a claim lands.
What we handle
We review the payment claim against your contract and the work actually performed, identify legitimate grounds for withholding or reducing payment, and prepare a payment schedule that meets the Act's requirements. If the matter proceeds to adjudication, we manage your response through to determination.
Track record
We've advised principals and head contractors on payment schedule responses across a range of construction and fit-out projects, helping clients meet strict deadlines without giving up legitimate grounds for dispute. Every matter is personally overseen, not handed off to a rotating cast of junior staff.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
If a payment schedule isn't provided in time, you become liable to pay the full claimed amount and lose the ability to dispute it through adjudication on that claim.
Can I pay less than what was claimed?
Yes — provided your payment schedule clearly states the scheduled amount and the reasons for the difference, in line with the Act's requirements.
What if I disagree with the whole claim?
You can schedule a nil amount, but you still need to provide a valid payment schedule with reasons — silence or a late response won't protect you.
Why claimants and respondents choose Archer Lawyers
You deal with the lawyer running your response, not a call centre.
We do not refer work out. Our team sees matters through.
Straightforward guidance on your payment schedule, without unnecessary jargon.
Your lawyer
Who handles your payment schedule
Matthew Armota
Matthew Armota is the Principal of Archer Lawyers, bringing a depth of experience gained across boutique, national and international law firms to every matter he handles. He has acted for head contractors and subcontractors in multiple adjudication applications and responses under the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999, with a very high success rate.
“Known for pairing sharp technical skill with clear, commercially-minded advice clients can actually act on.”
What's included, and what we work toward
What's included
Outcomes we work toward
Get your free Payment Schedule review
Free. No obligation. Tell us a little about your situation and we'll call you back — usually the same business day.
Call direct — fastest option
(02) 9127 6656 · Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm AEST
“I approached Matt to represent me in proceedings involving defects and payment claims. He achieved an excellent outcome on my behalf. I was very pleased with his strategic guidance throughout the matter.”