Get help recovering unpaid invoices in construction and trade
Recover Unpaid Invoices in the Construction Industry
Chasing money you’ve already earned shouldn’t be part of the job. We help tradies, subcontractors and construction businesses get paid fast, using a process built around how the industry really works.
A Legal Process Built for Tradies
Even small debts matter. Every dollar covers your materials, time and the people who work beside you. Our Recoverit process helps you act fast, stay in control and get paid with confidence.
Step 1: Prepare Your Claim
We start by reviewing your quote, invoice and contract details.
If needed, we help you reissue your unpaid invoice as a formal Payment Claim under the Construction Contracts Act. This type of claim is quick to prepare but carries real legal weight.
Our role is to make sure your claim meets all requirements and gives you the strongest position for fast recovery.
Step 2: Send a Letter of Demand
If payment still has not arrived, we send a formal letter of demand on our law firm letterhead.
We set a clear deadline for payment and explain the legal and financial consequences of ignoring it, including interest and recovery costs.
Most debts are resolved at this point. A letter from a lawyer signals that you mean business and often prompts immediate payment.
Step 3: Enforce Through Summary Judgment
If the debt remains unpaid, we apply to the court for summary judgment. This is a faster option for clear and undisputed debts. We prepare and file the court documents, manage correspondence and deal directly with the debtor.
Where possible, we ask the court to order repayment of your legal costs so you are not left out of pocket. You are only responsible for basic disbursements such as filing and service fees, and we aim to recover those for you too.
Legal Support That Gets Results
We know how stressful unpaid invoices can be. When cash flow slows, projects stall and good people feel the pinch. Our team has real experience helping tradies recover what they’re owed quickly and with minimum hassle. Let’s get your money back so you can focus on the jobs that matter.
Where We Work
Our construction law and debt recovery team is based in Wellington and works with tradies, subcontractors and construction businesses across New Zealand. We act promptly and efficiently to help you recover money owed under the Construction Contracts Act.
Questions We Often Get Asked About Recovering Construction Debts
What is a Payment Claim under the Construction Contracts Act?
A Payment Claim is a formal document that meets the requirements of the Construction Contracts Act. It gives you stronger rights to recover unpaid work or materials. We help you prepare or review your claim so it meets every requirement.
How quickly can I take action on an unpaid invoice?
You can act as soon as payment is overdue. The sooner you issue a Payment Claim or letter of demand, the higher your chance of recovery. We guide you through each step so you act at the right time.
What if the debtor disputes the amount owed?
If a dispute arises, we review your contract, communications and the work completed. Depending on what we find, we may recommend adjudication, mediation or summary judgment.
Can legal costs be recovered from the debtor?
In many cases, yes. If your claim is successful, the court can order the debtor to cover your legal costs and filing fees. We always try to get these costs back for you so you’re not left out of pocket.
