ARCANA Alberta and Alberta Dispute Adjudication for Construction Contracts (ADACC) updated reports have been released with new findings on prompt payment and adjudication.
ARCANA’s latest annual report highlights continued growth in Alberta’s construction adjudication process from April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026. They serve as a nominating authority under the Prompt Payment and Construction Lien Act (PPCLA) wherein they utilize qualified adjudicators to provide dispute resolution services. 50 payment dispute cases were administered over the reporting period. A total of 44 adjudicator were appointed, with 6 notices being withdrawn due to either jurisdictional issues or issues that exist beyond the scope of the legislative framework.
ARCANA has reported consistent increases in appointments, demonstrating growing confidence amongst industry parties in adjudication as a means to resolve pay disputes.
Overall, the annual report and its findings signify that:
- The industry is growing increasingly confident in the established adjudication process, reflected by the rising number of parties using the strategy as part of dispute resolution.
- The adjudicator roster is being used effectively, with each active member receiving appointments over the reporting period.
- There is a high level of party engagement in adjudicator selection, with parties agreeing on or proposing the use of an adjudicator in a significant portion of cases.
The Alberta Dispute Adjudication for Construction Contracts (ADACC)’s first Annual Report highlights continued activity within Alberta’s construction adjudication process as a nominating authority. Under the Prompt Payment and Construction Lien Act, (PPCLA), the ADACC is responsible for administering adjudications in addition to training and certifying adjudicators. ADACC was established in order to act as a body that helps deliver timely resolution of disputes to ensure projects across the process move smoothly and maintain their momentum.
A total of two adjudications were completed during the fiscal year, one in Calgary and the other in the Athabasca-Grande Prairie-Peace River region. Both received a Determination within the required timeframe, with no cases terminated before a Determination or Order was issued and no extensions of time being requested or required.
In the 2026 Fiscal Year, the two Notices of Adjudication total claimed amount was $38,919.46, with an average claim amount of $19,459.73. Of the two adjudications, both required Determination, with one determinator not requiring any amount to be paid.
Together, these reports highlight an increasing demand for Alberta’s adjudication process and fair, timely, and efficient dispute resolution and payment practices. ACA has played an important role in supporting the development of the PPCLA framework and continues to support its success through industry education, awareness, and advocacy.