A debt claim under a Russian contract for work depends on the agreed scope, evidence that work was performed or properly offered, acceptance documents and payment terms. The correct route changes if the customer has documented defects, refused acceptance or disputes the scope.
Payment rule
Unless the contract provides otherwise, the customer pays the agreed price after final delivery of properly performed work. The contract may set advance payments, milestones, acceptance periods and different payment terms; these documents must be reviewed first.
Evidence of performance
- the contract, technical specification and amendments;
- invoices and correspondence;
- delivery or acceptance certificates and any motivated objections;
- evidence that the result was sent or made available;
- payment records and a calculation of the outstanding amount.
Acceptance and objections
The customer must inspect and accept the work in the contractual time and manner. Where defects or divergence are alleged, the notice, timing and contract terms need careful review. A missing signed certificate does not automatically determine the dispute: the evidence must show what was completed, offered and genuinely disputed.
Pre-action and court stage
Check any contractual pre-action clause, send a clear demand and calculate the principal, contractual penalties and statutory interest only where the claim supports them. Jurisdiction and procedure depend on the parties and transaction.
Legal framework
Key provisions include Articles 711 and 720 of the Russian Civil Code. Construction, consumer and public-procurement contracts may be subject to additional rules.
This material is general information and is not a substitute for advice on a particular dispute.