Commercial Debt Recovery for Construction Companies in the UK
Structured, end-to-end recovery of unpaid construction invoices – from pre-legal action to enforcement.
Payment Delays in the UK Construction Sector
The construction industry in the UK is particularly exposed to delayed and disputed payments. Complex contract structures, layered subcontractor relationships and milestone-based billing often lead to extended payment cycles.
Main contractors, subcontractors and suppliers operate within long payment chains. Delays at one level can quickly affect the entire project structure. Retention payments, variations and valuation disputes further increase the risk of unpaid invoices.
For many construction businesses, this creates ongoing pressure on cash flow and working capital. Internal credit control processes are often not sufficient once disputes escalate or communication breaks down.
Where construction invoices remain unpaid beyond agreed terms, a structured and legally compliant recovery approach becomes essential.
Why Construction Companies Choose Our Debt Recovery Services
Unpaid construction invoices require more than standard collection processes. Complex contracts, multiple stakeholders and retention disputes demand a structured and legally sound recovery approach.
Structured Escalation
From initial recovery efforts to statutory demands and court proceedings, each step follows a clear and legally compliant framework tailored to construction disputes.
Faster Cash Flow
Reduce payment delays across projects and subcontractor chains. Accelerate recovery while maintaining commercial stability.
Legal-Ready Recovery
Construction debt often escalates. Our process is built to transition seamlessly from pre-legal recovery to formal legal action where necessary.
Full Portfolio Visibility
Track all active cases across projects in one central dashboard. Gain transparency over outstanding invoices and recovery status.
One platform for domestic and cross-border commercial debt collection
Start recovering your unpaid construction invoices
Submit your claim in minutes and initiate a structured recovery process tailored to the UK construction sector.
The Construction Debt Recovery Process
Construction debt cases often require a structured escalation path. Our process ensures legal clarity, commercial control and efficient progression at every stage.
- 1
Case Review & Pre-Legal Recovery
We assess the contractual basis, payment history and project structure. Initial recovery efforts focus on structured communication and formal demand, aiming to resolve the matter without court action. - 2
Letter Before Action
If payment remains outstanding, a formal Letter Before Action is issued in line with UK legal requirements. This establishes clear deadlines and strengthens legal positioning. - 3
Statutory Demand (Where Appropriate)
In cases involving insolvency risk, a statutory demand may be issued. This formal step increases pressure and can prompt resolution without full court proceedings. - 4
Court Proceedings
If necessary, the case progresses to formal court action to obtain a County Court Judgment (CCJ) or High Court judgment. - 5
Enforcement
Following judgment, enforcement measures may include High Court Enforcement Officers, charging orders or other appropriate recovery mechanisms.
Frequently asked questions about debt collection in the construction industry
The timeline depends on the complexity of the dispute, the contractual structure and the debtor’s response. Straightforward cases can be resolved within weeks during the pre-legal stage. Where legal action is required, recovery may take several months depending on court schedules and enforcement measures.
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