1. Identify the issues: Document the issues with your building works with photos/videos and if possible, an inspection report at each of the stages of your build. 2. Communication: Address concerns with the builder regarding the defective works and how they are to be rectified prior to the stage of your build being completed and/or... Read more » Read more...
What happens with your existing building plans when you terminate your building contract?
In many contracts, the builder has included a condition that provides that the copyright and intellectual property in the plans remains the property of the builder. This can create issues when obtaining a new builder as you cannot use the plans to finalise the build which is virtually impossible. However, should you find yourself in... Read more » Read more...
Important Notice for Homeowners
If you are a homeowner and your builder faces financial difficulties or collapses during a construction project, we’re here to provide guidance and support during these challenging times. We are experienced property and building lawyers who understand the complexities involved when a builder goes into or threatens liquidation. Our team can assist you in navigating... Read more » Read more...
Home Owners – When do you need a registered builder, a major domestic building contract and domestic building insurance?
Home Owners- if your building works are worth more than $10,000.00 then make sure the builder is registered, has given you a major domestic building contract. And if the works are over $16,000.00 make sure you get a certificate of domestic building insurance too. Read more...
BUILDING CONTRACT REVIEW BY SOLICITOR – WHY YOU NEED ONE
Signing a building contract will probably be one of the biggest and most expensive commitments you make in your life. It makes sense to have the building contract reviewed by a lawyer for peace of mind before you sign. In the course of a week, we receive calls from many home owners who are in... Read more » Read more...
Legal review of building contracts
For most people, entering into a contract with a builder for a new home or a renovation is the second largest investment they will make, after buying their home or land. This is a significant legal transaction with potentially horrendous consequences for the homeowner if a proper building contract review is not carried out before... Read more » Read more...
Domestic Building Disputes Resolution Victoria
Domestic Building Disputes Resolution Victoria is a new dispute resolution body which commenced activities on 26 April 2017, providing free building dispute resolution services for homeowners and builders. If you have a “domestic building work dispute”, then it is mandatory to apply to Domestic Building Disputes Resolution Victoria before issuing legal proceedings at VCAT. A... Read more » Read more...
Recent changes to Victorian Building Laws
The Victorian Government has made recent changes to Victorian building laws which came into effect on 4 July 2016. The changes extend the powers of the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) and will affect building practitioners, building surveyors, owner builders and all home owners. The aim of the changes is to increase consumer protection in the domestic... Read more » Read more...
7 Ways to Reduce the Risk of Building Claims
Builders- please read on for 7 Ways to Reduce the Risk of Litigation for Domestic Builders based on Melissa Henderson's personal experience as CEO of a large domestic home extension company for over five years. Read more...
New consumer reforms affecting domestic builders
The Victorian Government has introduced the Building Legislation Amendment (Consumer Protection) Bill 2015 with new consumer reforms affecting domestic builders. The reforms include some dramatic and important changes as a first stage of reform following problems with domestic building identified by the Victorian Auditor General earlier in May 2015. The changes include: a new dispute... Read more » Read more...
