ArtBuild template ArtBuild guide · All of Canada
Defective work dispute guide
Start here: respond to a deficiency complaint without admitting or denying fault.
Defective Work Disputes Kit
Use this kit when a client says your work is defective or incomplete and wants it fixed, wants money back or refuses to pay.
ArtBuild template written by ArtBuild
Do these three things today
Deal with any hazard first: water entry, exposed wiring or anything unstable. Make it safe and record what you did.
Acknowledge the complaint in writing and propose an inspection. Do not admit or deny fault before you have looked.
Tell your insurance broker if there may be damage to property or people. Policies usually require prompt notice; check yours.
Keep what the client says separate from what you measure. An allegation becomes a finding only after inspection.
How to use this kit
Start with the guide marked "Start here". Each document below opens as a page you can read on your phone, with PDF, Word or Excel versions to download. "Download all" gives you every file in one ZIP.
Before you act: this document is general information prepared by ArtBuild to help you organise facts and paperwork. It is not legal advice and has not been reviewed by a lawyer for your situation. Rules differ by province and territory and change over time. Check the official source for your project, and for deadlines, liens, court or insolvency steps, speak with a lawyer licensed where the project is located.
Start here 1
Letters and forms to fill in 5
ArtBuild template All of Canada
Deficiency complaint intake form
Record the complaint exactly as received, item by item.
ArtBuild template All of Canada
Contract scope and quality review
Compare the complaint with what the contract and drawings required.
ArtBuild template All of Canada
Deficiency response letter
Reply to the client in writing with facts and next steps.
ArtBuild template All of Canada
Repair and remediation plan
Plan agreed repairs: method, who pays, inspections and sign-off.
ArtBuild template All of Canada
Defective work dispute evidence pack
One indexed file of the dispute, including evidence against you.
Excel spreadsheets 2
ArtBuild template All of Canada
Deficiency and Repair Tracker
Track each deficiency from report to verified repair.
ArtBuild template All of Canada
Photo and Evidence Register
Index photos and evidence with dates, locations and originals.
Checklists and guides 2
ArtBuild template ArtBuild checklist · All of Canada
Construction deficiency inspection checklist
Inspect safely and record observations before conclusions.
ArtBuild template ArtBuild checklist · All of Canada
Insurance notification checklist
Prepare a clear notice to your broker or insurer.
Official sources 1
ArtBuild template ArtBuild guide · All of Canada
Official sources: defective work disputes
Official consumer, warranty and court sources by province.
All construction forms & legal tools
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