If the Work is stopped due to non-payment, what is the Contractor entitled to?

When work is halted due to non-payment, the Contractor is entitled to an extension of Contract Time and an increase in Contract Sum. This entitlement stems from the fundamental principles of contract law, where a contractor has the right to seek compensation for delays that are not their fault, especially those caused by the owner's failure to meet payment obligations.

In cases of non-payment, the contractor may find that they have incurred additional costs related to being unable to continue work as scheduled. These costs could include lost labor productivity, extended overhead costs, and potential delay-related expenses. Consequently, the contractor can request an extension of time to complete the project, as the stoppage is not due to any fault of their own. Accompanying this extension may be a request for an increase in the contract sum to account for the additional costs incurred during the delay.

This framework is often encapsulated in the construction contract’s clauses regarding payment, disputes, and time extensions, ensuring that the contractor is fairly compensated for disruptions that are outside their control. Understanding this principle emphasizes the importance of adhering to payment schedules and maintaining open communication between contractors and owners to avoid these situations.