Overview
Building disputes are one area of law where costs can quickly escalate and where the need to obtain sound, timely and pragmatic legal advice can be critical in ensuring a cost effective resolution for all parties. Our lawyers excel in providing considered and commercially minded advice to individuals and companies involved in building and construction disputes.
Litigation & Alternatives to Litigation
If you are involved in a building and construction dispute it is likely that you have considered commencing litigation. While litigation is one option there are a number of alternate options available which may better serve your needs. These include alternative dispute resolution processes including arbitration, expert determination by an agreed join expert and mediation.
Often, the appropriate dispute mechanism available to parties may be specified in a building contract. We are able to review all types of building and construction contracts and advise you on your dispute resolution options.
In the absence of a specified contractual dispute resolution mechanism we can also review your particular circumstances and relevant aspects of your building dispute and prepare a detailed plan of action including advice on whether litigation or an alternative dispute resolution method is recommended.
Binding Arbitration or Expert Determination
The parties to a dispute may agree that an independent third party (Arbitrator/Expert) will hear and determine the dispute. Often the Arbitrator/Expert in building and construction disputes will have expertise in the particular area of dispute. In some instances where litigation has been commenced the Court may order the parties to participate in expert determination with a specified or agreed expert.
Mediation
The parties agree on a neutral third party or mediator to conduct a formal mediation conference. Usually the mediator will specify what information and documents need to be exchanged before the mediation. The parties are usually asked to prepare written submissions outlining their positions. In addition to legal representatives the disputing parties (or their nominated representatives) attend the mediation. Mediation is generally less costly than litigation and can also be effective in maintaining or repairing business relationships if the parties are likely to continue to work on future projects together.
Negotiation & Informal settlement conferences
While not as formal as mediation, we are often able to achieve excellent outcomes by negotiating on a client’s behalf either with the other party or their legal representatives. Negotiations can be conducted by phone or in writing (letter or email). In some instances an informal settlement conference facilitated by legal representatives but without a mediator can also prove effective in achieving a cost effective and quick resolution.
We are also able to provide advice and assist in the resolution of:
- Claims made to the Office of Fair Trading;
- Building Industry Fairness (Security of Payment) Act claims and disputes;
- Defective or incomplete work disputes;
- Delay disputes and claims for liquidated damages; and
- External commercial issues which may affect a dispute such as community concerns and complaints, environmental and property law issues.
We provide advice and assistance in relation to all aspects of building and construction disputes and welcome the opportunity to discuss your matter with you.
Please feel free to contact us by phone or email to discuss your concerns. Our experienced lawyers are here to help you navigate the best possible outcome and we look forward to assisting you.
