Florida Prompt Payment (Construction)
Florida prompt payment statutes set deadlines for paying contractors and subcontractors on private and public construction projects when invoices are undisputed.
Quick definition
Florida Prompt Payment (Construction) means Florida prompt payment statutes set deadlines for paying contractors and subcontractors on private and public construction projects when invoices are undisputed.
What is Florida prompt payment?
Florida prompt payment statutes set time limits for paying invoices on construction projects when work is accepted and amounts are due. Separate provisions apply to private and public work.
Prompt payment creates a payment clock. It does not replace Construction Lien Law rights when an owner simply refuses to pay.
Private construction projects
On many private jobs, owners must pay contractors within a set period after receiving a proper invoice or after conditions in the contract are met. Contractors must pass payment to subcontractors within defined timelines after receiving funds.
When an owner withholds payment, Florida law requires a written notice explaining the reason within specified timeframes. Vague delays are harder to defend.
Public construction projects
Public owners and contractors face their own prompt payment timelines and interest penalties for late payment. Public jobs also involve bonding, retainage, and procurement rules that interact with payment timing.
Prompt payment vs construction liens
| Topic | Prompt payment | Construction lien |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Pay within statutory time | Secure debt on property |
| Trigger | Proper invoice / acceptance | Notice and recording rules |
| Remedy | Damages / interest in some cases | Lien foreclosure |
Document change orders and delivery so "undisputed" amounts are clear.
On the job
Invoice promptly with required detail. The clock often starts on proper billing.
Send written follow-ups when payment is late. Statutory interest may apply.
Calendar lien deadlines separately. Prompt payment pressure and lien rights are different tools.
Note
This is general info, not legal advice. Florida payment rules depend on project type, contract language, and updates to statute. Consult a Florida construction lawyer for project-specific guidance.
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