Building Defects

We can help you address defective building works, whether they are major or minor.

Defective Building works can be a difficult issue for landowners, builders and contractors to identify and address. There are distinctly different processes for resolving residential and commercial building dispute.

Firstly, in all disputes the defective works need to be identified according to the building code and building standards. Disputes can arise when the works in dispute may not be major defects as well.

PCL Property Lawyer
Some issues we commonly help clients with
  • Incorrect installation or use of material
  • Electrical defects
  • Water leaks and plumbing issues
  • Tiling and uneven surfaces
  • Foundation and walls cracking
  • Moving and creaking floorboards or floating floors
  • Water leaks and waterproofing issues
  • Use of building materials not to Australian Standard
  • Works not compliant with drawings and specifications
  • Errors in architects or engineers drawing or specifications
  • Slab and foundational issues
  • Poor and unsightly finishes on aesthetic parts of works
PCL Property Lawyer
Timeframe to make a claim for building defects

Timeframes apply when making claims for defective building works against a builder. Warranty claims can be complex. For landowners it is important to identify and correctly request the rectification of defective works within the allowed timeframe.

Those time frames are dictated by legislation and regulations, so making sure you don’t wait too long is very important. Each defect or issue has its own timeline so its important to get assessed when you find one.

Expert Building Reports & Inspections

A report may be required to confirm that work is defective and doesn’t comply with Australian Standards or the Building Code of Australia.

To properly document the defect, building inspection reports or, in more complex instances, expert reports will be essential. Our building lawyers handle building defect disputes regularly and can provide guidance on how to document the issue.

Having proper records and reports can determine the course of your dispute. If you have a strong and well-prepared case, it is more likely to be settled swiftly and the works rectified. We can also engage experts and provide them with our requirements and scope to ensure that their report addresses the issues and concerns you have.

Frequently Asked Questions

How our lawyers can help

We have an established network of professionals that we consult with across the legal and construction industry such as barristers and experts. We can handle a wide variety of legal matters from the simple to complex with the assistance and expertise of our team and with the help of our network.

Our building and construction lawyers are experts in setting up the matter with the end in mind.

We take particular care to carefully articulate and organise your matter to ensure a successful outcome. We draft claims and correspondence with skill and precision and keep the key issues in sharp focus.

If you need advice on how to make or respond to a claim for defective building works, contact one of our team. We provide clear advice and our advice is commercially sound.

Contact one of our building lawyers to discuss your building defects matters on 1300 907 335.

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