Wage Recovery
Done the work but not been paid?
You have rights, and you don't have to chase this alone. Read what UK law says, see where to get free help, then ask for a call from a qualified specialist who knows how construction and energy work gets paid.
Don't wait. The clock is already running.
For employees and workers, a tribunal claim for unpaid wages must normally be started within 6 months of the last missed or short payment, where that payment fell on or after 1 October 2026. For payments before that date the old limit of 3 months less one day still applies. You must contact ACAS before you can claim, so start there as soon as you can.
Your rights under UK law
What the law says, in plain English
Which rules protect you depends on how you were engaged. Find the one that fits you.
Your wages are protected
Under the Employment Rights Act 1996 (Part II) your employer can't hold back or cut your pay unless the law, your contract or your own prior written agreement allows it. Unpaid wages, overtime, holiday pay and commission all count.
You can claim at an Employment Tribunal after ACAS early conciliation. Backdated claims for a run of underpayments are usually limited to the last 2 years.
Your invoices are protected
The Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998 lets you add interest at 8% above the Bank of England base rate, plus fixed compensation of £40, £70 or £100 per invoice depending on its size.
Debts up to £10,000 can go through the small claims court in England and Wales, online via Money Claim Online.
The Construction Act backs you
The Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996 gives parties to construction contracts the right to regular payments, clear payment and pay-less notices, to suspend work for non-payment after giving notice, and to go to adjudication, a fast decision usually within 28 days.
Paid below the minimum, or let down by an agency?
Paying below the National Minimum or Living Wage is against the law, and arrears must be repaid at today's rates. The Fair Work Agency, launched in April 2026, now enforces minimum wage and employment agency rules and can act against employers directly.
The company has gone into administration?
If you were an employee, the government's Redundancy Payments Service can pay up to 8 weeks of unpaid wages, plus holiday pay and notice pay, up to weekly limits. The insolvency practitioner will give you a case reference to apply.
Rules differ in Scotland and Northern Ireland, and outside the UK. This page is general information, not legal advice. Your specialist will tell you what applies to your situation.
Free help you can use today
Where to turn
- ACASFree, impartial advice and the early conciliation you need before any tribunal claim. Helpline 0300 123 1100. acas.org.uk
- Employment TribunalWhere employees and workers bring wage claims once they have their ACAS certificate. gov.uk/employment-tribunals
- Fair Work Agency & HMRCReport minimum wage underpayment and agency problems. gov.uk/pay-and-work-rights
- Money Claim OnlineClaim unpaid invoices of up to £10,000 through the County Court without a solicitor. gov.uk/make-court-claim-for-money
- Citizens AdviceFree help with letters, evidence and next steps. citizensadvice.org.uk
- Your trade unionIf you're a member, your union may fund legal help with a wage claim. Ask your rep.
One place, three specialists
Qualified people who know business law at home and abroad
Worked overseas or for a foreign contractor? Our panel covers the UK, Europe, Australia and the Americas. Tell us what happened and we'll put you in touch with the right one.
UK & Ireland
UK & Ireland specialist
Qualified and experienced in business law. Employment and commercial disputes, unpaid wages and invoices, and Construction Act adjudication.
Europe
Europe specialist
Qualified and experienced in business law. Cross-border contracts and unpaid work on European projects.
Australia & the Americas
Australia & Americas specialist
Qualified and experienced in business law. Overseas contracts, international business law and debt recovery.
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Tell us what you're owed
It takes two minutes. We'll read it and get back to you, usually within 2 working days, to point you to the right specialist.
- Tell usYour name, number and a few lines on what happened.
- We match youLegal, contract or HSE specialist, depending on your case.
- You decideThey'll explain your options and any costs before you commit.
Have your contract, timesheets, payslips, invoices and any messages about payment ready. They make a big difference.
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We'll be in touch, usually within 2 working days. If your time limit is close, contact ACAS today on 0300 123 1100. Don't wait for us.