While most building projects run smoothly, sometimes thingsdon't go as planned. This can be stressful for everyone, but there are steps you can take to help get your project back on track.
Discuss any issues straight away with your builder and give them the opportunity to offer a solution. The best results are achieved when both parties work together.
Timely,clear and calm communication between homeowner and builder can often help speed up a resolution.
Disputes often arise from a misunderstanding of what has been agreed in the building contract.
If you feel something is going wrong, a good place to start is to review your contract to check what you have legally agreed to.
You may want to get legal advice to help you understand what the contract covers.
If the relationship with your builder deteriorates, you may find yourself in a contractual dispute. While this can be stressful, you have a legal contract with each other that needs to be fulfilled.
We offer a free disputes resolution service through an independent provider called Fair Way. They help resolve issues in areas such as communication, quality, payment, and design.
If contractual disputesaren't resolved through the Fair Way service, there are other options you may consider taking independently.
Mediation
Mediation may be requested by either party, but both sides need to agree to the process.
A mediator will discuss the situation with each party individually, then lead a joint meeting to explore the issues and options. The aim is to find solutions that work for everyone.
Adjudication
Adjudication is the next step up from mediation. It is quicker and less expensive than going to court.
An adjudicator will make an order so construction works can continue. Orders are only interim but are often accepted by the parties without further legal proceedings being needed.
