For homeowners in Queensland, breach notices are a critical tool in managing building contracts, but they come with significant risks. Whether you are dealing with a builder, subcontractor, or developer, a breach notice formally alleges that the other party has failed...

Termination notices in building contracts are a critical and high-stakes step, especially for homeowners in Queensland. While it may seem like a straightforward way to resolve a problematic building project, issuing a termination notice without meeting strict legal...

It is crucial for home owners to understand the relevant laws and responsibilities before constructing, maintaining, or resolving disputes about a retaining wall. Building Approvals and Regulations for Retaining Walls Retaining walls are structural features designed...

Building or renovating a home in Queensland can be stressful, especially when delays lead to extra costs like rent, mortgage interest, or temporary accommodation. Liquidated damages (LDs) are a legal tool to protect homeowners from these financial burdens. Here’s a...

Building or renovating your home is a significant investment, and protecting yourself legally is crucial. If you want the protections under Schedule 1B of the Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act 1991 (Qld) (QBCC Act), you must ensure your contract with...

Does your building contract or architectural drawings include the phrase “or similar” when describing products or materials for your new home? While this wording may seem harmless, it can have significant consequences for the quality, appearance, and durability of...

For most people, signing a building or renovation contract is probably the most expensive contract they will sign in their lives.

Nearly everyone knows someone with a horror story regarding builders, contractors, architects or planners.

So that begs the question, given the risk, why aren’t more Homeowners seeking contract advice prior to signing the contract?

There are good reasons to use a cost-plus contract. They are typically flexible, allowing changes to designs, and they can provide better cost transparency meaning you generally know how much money your builder is making.

But there are significant disadvantages……. some of which may be a serious problem if your project is delayed, or the builder becomes insolvent.

It’s becoming a norm that builders seem rock solid one day and absent the next. The depressing fact is you will likely never really know how financially stable your builder is until work on your project grinds to a halt or subcontractors start taking materials off your property.

Fortunately, the Home Warranty Insurance Scheme has been around for a while and can be a lifeline for homeowners who are left with a half-finished house or renovation. The policy does not apply to all contracts and projects, and we recommend you speak to a residential building and construction lawyer before you sign the contract.