One of the most common questions we receive from sub-contractors is — “How long will it take to get my money back?”
The answer depends on how smoothly the adjudication process runs, but under CIPAA 2012, the entire process is designed to conclude within 95 working days from the date your Payment Claim is served. Here is exactly what happens at each stage.
Stage 1 — Payment Claim (Day 1 to Day 10)
The process begins when you serve a Payment Claim on the party who owes you money (the Respondent). This document must clearly state the amount claimed, the basis of the claim, and the due date for payment.
The Respondent has 10 working days from the date of service to respond with a Payment Response. If they do not respond, you may proceed directly to adjudication.
Stage 2 — Notice of Adjudication (Day 10 to Day 25)
If the Respondent disputes your claim or fails to pay, you serve a Notice of Adjudication. This formally initiates the adjudication proceedings.
Both parties then agree on an Adjudicator — or apply to the AIAC to appoint one. The Adjudicator must be appointed by Day 25.
Stage 3 — Adjudication Claim (Day 25 to Day 35)
Once the Adjudicator is appointed, you have until Day 35 to submit your Adjudication Claim — a comprehensive document setting out your full case, supported by all relevant evidence, documents, and legal arguments.
This is the most important document in the entire process. A well-prepared Adjudication Claim significantly increases your chances of success.
Stage 4 — Adjudication Response (Day 35 to Day 45)
The Respondent has until Day 45 to submit their Adjudication Response — their formal reply to your claim. This is where they present their defence, counterclaims, and any deductions they seek to make.
Stage 5 — Adjudication Reply (Day 45 to Day 50)
You then have until Day 50 to submit your Adjudication Reply — your response to the Respondent’s defence. This is your final opportunity to address their arguments and reinforce your case.
Stage 6 — Adjudication Decision (By Day 95)
The Adjudicator reviews all submissions and delivers the Adjudication Decision by Day 95. The decision is binding on both parties. If the Respondent is ordered to pay, they must do so — or you can enforce the decision through the court.
What Happens After the Decision?
If you win, the Respondent must pay the amount ordered within the timeframe specified in the decision. If they fail to pay, you can:
- Apply to the High Court to enforce the decision
- Request direct payment from the principal (the party above the Respondent in the contractual chain)
If the Respondent is unhappy with the decision, they may challenge it in court — but they must still pay first under the “Pay Now, Argue Later” principle of CIPAA 2012.
Can the Process Take Longer Than 95 Days?
Yes — in some cases the timeline may extend if:
- The parties agree to extend the Adjudicator’s time
- There are jurisdictional challenges
- The Adjudicator requests additional documents or a site visit
However, 95 working days is the standard timeline and most cases are resolved within this period.
Start Your Claim Today
Every day you wait is a day your cash flow suffers. CIPAA 2012 gives you a powerful and affordable tool to recover what you are owed — but timing matters. The earlier you act, the stronger your position.
Contact WE Project Management PLT for a free initial consultation. We will assess your case and advise you on the fastest and most effective route to recovering your payment.