Building Defect lawyers

Building Defects

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

Recognising and dealing with faulty construction can pose a challenge for landowners, builders, and contractors alike. It’s crucial to understand that addressing this issue involves distinct steps for residential and commercial building disputes.

Firstly, the initial focus is on identifying the problematic building works. This is done by comparing them to established building codes and standards. It’s worth noting that disputes can arise not only over significant defects but also over matters that might not qualify as major issues.

In any case, the first step is to accurately pinpoint the aspects of the construction that are not up to par, using the established guidelines as a reference. This process is essential because it forms the foundation for addressing and resolving the dispute, whether it’s related to a residential or a commercial property. By ensuring that the building adheres to the required codes and standards, it sets the stage for a smoother resolution process and helps prevent potential conflicts down the line.

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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

When it comes to filing claims for defective building works against a builder, it’s crucial to be aware of specific timeframes. These time limits are a key factor in warranty claims, which can often be intricate and multifaceted. For landowners, the process of identifying and initiating the correction of faulty works within the allocated timeframe is of utmost importance.

These timeframes are set by laws and regulations, meaning they’re not arbitrary but rather legally defined. Therefore, avoiding delays is of significant importance. Different defects or issues might have different windows within which you can take action, so it’s vital to act promptly once you discover a problem.

Essentially, the clock starts ticking once a defect or issue is identified. This underscores the need for timely assessment and action. By adhering to these legislated timeframes, landowners can better ensure that their claims are valid and can be pursued effectively. It’s a precautionary step that safeguards your rights and maximises the chances of a successful resolution to the issue at hand.

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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