REGINA — The monetary limit for claims that can proceed through the Provincial (Small Claims) Court has been increased from $30,000 to $50,000.
New regulations, which formally take effect on April 1,2024, will make Saskatchewan’s small claims limit the second-highest in Canada, according to a government press release.
“This increase to $50,000 in claimable damages will help more Saskatchewan people resolve certain civil disputes in a quick and cost-effective manner,” The Canadian Bar Association, Saskatchewan Branch president Steven Dribnenki said. “This will help improve access to justice.”
Plaintiffs with claims under the new $50,000 limit may still choose to bring their matter before the Court of King’s Bench. If a claim exceeds the monetary limit, plaintiffs will also have the option to waive the excess amount and still proceed through small claims court.
“The Regina and Region Home Builders’ Association supports the decision to increase the small claims court monetary limit to $50,000," Regina and Region Home Builders’ Association president and CEO Stu Neibergall said.
"Elevating the cap to $50,000 not only reflects the evolving economic landscape, but also provides a more accessible avenue for parties involved in construction disputes to seek timely and cost-effective resolution, contributing to a more robust and trustworthy housing industry.”
The small claims limit was last increased in 2016, following a Ministry of Justice review of the process.
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