With residential building industry shortages expected to continue into the foreseeable future, ensure you’re protected. Understand the latest regulations and how you can resolve a dispute if a situation arises.
We have 7 top tips to navigate your way through these testing times.
Stay in touch with all stakeholders and provide regular updates on how materials and labour shortages may impact the project. Above all, over-communication is best in a time like this. Even if it equals more time and money on communicating, in the long run, it may actually help you save.
Speak with all parties about what the other options include, to overcome shortages that are causing the original timeline to blow out.
Further to considering all options, avoid disagreements by ensuring all parties are aware of the type of cost contract that exists. This is particularly important if a cost-plus contract is in use. Ensuring understanding on all sides can really save you time in the long run.
If a disagreement does arise, always try to resolve a dispute without third-party support in the first instance. If you manage to come to an understanding, a lot of time and possible expenses can be avoided by all parties.
The Queensland Government’s Accelerated Building/Consumer Dispute (ABCD) framework may be an option if you require help resolving a building dispute.
For instance, the framework is applicable for new home or renovation projects over $150,000.
Find out if you are eligible for this support by contacting (QBCC) the Queensland Building and Construction Commission online or via phone at 139 333.
Strict time frames apply for claims under the QBCC Home Warranty Scheme.
A contract must end within two years of the day work started and a claim with QBCC must be lodged within three months of the contract end date – for all non-completed projects of a fixed price contract.
If you are unsure what time frames apply to your project, contact QBCC.
Several of us within the building and construction industry has experienced firsthand the personal stress from building shortages and potential disputes as a result.
Always remember help is here for you. Reach out to organisations like Lifeline online or call 13 11 14.
Master Builders Queensland, the Housing Industry Association, the Queensland Government and QBCC are working together ongoing, to help address the current building shortage crisis within our industry.
For ongoing updates and further information, check out this article on QBCC’s website – industry shortages.
Subscribe for helpful updates from TSC Group.
We are currently taking expressions of interest for this product.
Please leave your name and email and will be in touch when this product is available for purchase.