Building Contract Lawyers Melbourne

Due to the booming amount of domestic and commercial construction occurring in Melbourne, building disputes are pretty common. And it always comes back to the contract. Both builders and owners can be badly affected by a vague contract containing ambiguous clauses. This can make contract terms open to different interpretations and lead to disputes. A building contract lawyer can draft your contract in clear-cut and direct language that accurately states each party’s obligations and protects your interests. And a good building contracts lawyer will ensure that dispute resolution provisions are included in the contract itself.

Disputes can also arise when one of the parties doesn’t comply with one or more terms in the contract. Some examples are:

• The owner doesn’t provide a progress payment for the builder during construction or doesn’t make full payment to the builder after the project is completed.
• The builder doesn’t complete the job by the agreed-upon date.
• The builder doesn’t provide work which meets the agreed quality standards in the contract. An example of this might be a floor which isn’t level.

The last thing anyone needs is the added financial stress caused by lengthy litigation and dispute processes. At Rosendorff, our experienced building contract lawyers are very familiar with all types of building disputes and can help quickly resolve your building contract issues.

Types of Building Contracts Rosendorff can help with

• Joint Venture Agreements
• Building Contracts, Reviews & Advice
• Subcontractor Agreements
• Purchase and Sales Contracts

Building Contract Disputes

As building contract lawyers in Melbourne, we’ve found that there are some very common types of contract disputes. These include:

• Poor or faulty workmanship by the builder or sub-contractors.
• Cost overruns, whether caused by contract variations or other factors.
• Delays in the construction work being carried out.
• Substituting inferior materials rather than those agreed in the contract.
• Payment delays during and after construction.
• Failure to effectively document any variations from the original scope of the contract.

But what’s the most effective way to resolve these disputes?

At Rosendorff Lawyers, we recognise that litigation is no one’s first choice. Our team are experts in alternative dispute resolution, and we’ll give you a balanced appraisal of your best options. Often, our initial recommendation might be to help you find an acceptable outcome through mediation. Our building contract lawyers are skilled in negotiating settlements and drafting settlement agreements. If your case requires arbitration, we are very experienced in preparing and presenting cases before the VCAT tribunal. VCAT – the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal – is a less formal method of resolution than a court. And we are always well-equipped to assist if your case proceeds to litigation.

Looking for a Building Contract Lawyer In Melbourne?

Are you looking for a building contract lawyer in Melbourne to handle your building contract issues? We provide cost-effective advice, contract preparation and negotiation. Our flexible approach to building disputes covers everything from alternative dispute resolution to litigation. At Rosendorff Lawyers, we are driven by a desire to help you achieve your best outcome.

Contact our friendly team on 1300 127 330 or click here to arrange your consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I consider using a building contract lawyer?

Lawyers for building contracts aren’t a luxury. With such high amounts of money at stake, they’re a necessity. A badly-written building contract can cause big financial problems.  Ambiguous and vague clauses in the contract can leave it open to different interpretations. Which could end up costing you a fortune.

Building contract lawyers can also help you with negotiation, settling any contract disputes and, if necessary, litigation.

Will I have to attend court if I get a building contract lawyer involved?

Not usually. A good building contract dispute lawyer can help you explore other options than litigation to settle disputes. We have years of experience in mediation, conciliation and arbitration. These methods can resolve disputes before any need to head to court. At Rosendorff Lawyers, we understand that building disputes need to be managed quickly to minimise disruptions and costs.