Learn about the procurement dispute management and complaint processes
There are a number of dispute resolution bodies available to help you resolve your issues with a procurement. Learn more about the roles of each of the procurement bodies and when you can use them.
Note
In all cases, we recommend that your first step is to attempt to resolve the dispute through the contracting authority for your procurement. You can also contact the Office of the Procurement Ombudsman to review all avenues afforded to you.
On this page
- Contracting authority for the procurement
- Business Dispute Management Program
- Office of the Procurement Ombudsman
- Canadian International Trade Tribunal
- Competition Bureau
- Get more help with procurement
Contracting authority for the procurement
The contracting authority identified in the tender notice is responsible for the procurement and can explain the methods for addressing contract disputes in that department or agency.
The contact information for the contracting authority should appear on the front page of your contract document. Contact them to discuss your concern, or use the Government Electronic Directory Services (accessible only on the Government of Canada network) to find the contracting authority’s supervisor.
When to use
This should always be your first step. Complaints can be raised during or at any point after the bid solicitation stage. If your dispute can not be resolved through the contracting authority, take a look at the other options below.
Business Dispute Management Program
The Business Dispute Management Program provides conflict prevention and alternative dispute resolution services to anyone experiencing difficulties with a contract where Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) is the contracting authority. The program can help contractors, other government departments and PSPC employees.
When to use
Contact the Business Dispute Management Program in any of the following cases:
- are unsure of the next steps to take to address a contract dispute
- believe you would benefit from the help of a conflict management practitioner in preparing for a difficult conversation
- do not know who to contact for help to resolve an issue
- are seeking options other than litigation
Dispute resolution resources
Consult the dispute resolution resources to help you manage a conflict, prepare for a discussion and better understand alternative dispute resolution.
Office of the Procurement Ombudsman
The Procurement Ombudsman reviews:
- complaints regarding the award of a contract for goods under $25,300 and services under $101,100
- complaints regarding the administration of a contract to which suppliers are party, regardless of dollar value
The Office of the Procurement Ombudsman encourages suppliers to come forward with any procurement issue as what may seem isolated may actually be widespread and systemic. The office has the authority to review these systemic issues and provide recommendations to federal organizations which promote fairness openness and transparency in federal procurement.
When to use
You may contact the Office of the Procurement Ombudsman if you have:
- a complaint regarding the award of a federal government contract
- issues concerning the administration of a federal government contract
- a contract dispute with a federal organization requiring quick, no fee, resolution services
Contract dispute resolution services
The Procurement Ombudsman provides alternative dispute resolution services when disputes relating to the interpretation and application of the terms and conditions of a contract occur. One of the parties to the contract can request the service, whether the supplier or the federal organization. Both parties to the contract must agree to participate as it is a voluntary process. The office's alternative dispute resolution services offer an opportunity for parties to come together in a neutral setting to participate in confidential, open and constructive dialogue. When both parties agree to participate, the office's trained mediators have a successful track record of resolving disputes.
Canadian International Trade Tribunal
The Canadian International Trade Tribunal reviews complaints concerning federal government procurement covered by trade agreements.
When to use
Contact the Canadian International Trade Tribunal only:
- after attempting to resolve the dispute with the contracting authority directly
- and if the procurement is covered by at least one trade agreement (listed in the tender notice)
- and if there is a perceived breach of a trade agreement obligation
Competition Bureau
The Competition Bureau is an independent law enforcement agency that ensures that Canadian businesses and consumers prosper in a competitive and innovative marketplace.
When to use
Contact the Competition Bureau only:
- after attempting to resolve the dispute with the contracting authority directly
- and if your complaint is concerning anti-competitive behaviour
Get more help with procurement
Call the toll free number at 1‑833‑831‑3438 for assistance with conflict prevention and alternative dispute resolution services when selling to the Government of Canada.
Visit our contacts for procurement page to connect with the right people to provide you with answers to your questions, information about free seminars, and support for general procurement questions.