As of January 1, 2026, changes to Ontario’s Construction Act will be enforced and this round of updates, introduced by Bill 60, will affect how money flows, how disputes get resolved, and how projects are managed day to day. While prompt payment, adjudication, and lien reforms have been in place for several years now, these latest amendments tighten the rules and remove some flexibility that owners, builders, and trades had gotten used to.

Lien bonds play an important role in helping construction projects move forward when a payment dispute leads to a construction lien on a property. Disputes are a normal part of doing business, especially in the construction world where payments, timelines, and materials all need to stay on track. When a disagreement over payment happens, it can lead to a construction lien being placed on the property, which can slow everything down until the issue is resolved

Disputes over leasehold improvements are common in commercial real estate and can quickly become complicated. These disagreements often involve who owns the improvements, who pays for them, whether proper approval was given, or who is responsible for removing them when the lease ends. The best way to avoid these conflicts is with a clear, well-drafted lease. However, if a dispute does arise, it is important to understand your rights and to work with a litigation lawyer who can help protect your interests.

Repair and Storage liens can have surprising legal power, sometimes even more than a registered lender’s claim. Suppose a contractor finances an excavator through an equipment finance company. To secure the lien, the lender registers a purchase-money security interest (PMSI) under Ontario’s Personal Property Security Act (PPSA), which usually gives it top priority if the borrower defaults.