Building Disputes and more

Whether you need a contract that withstands scrutiny, urgent payment claim advice, representation in a regulatory investigation, or defence of a complex engineering dispute. We act quickly and strategically to protect your position.

Book an appointment Our people

Building Disputes

Construction disputes in Victoria are increasingly technical, multi-party and insurance-driven.

From engineering failures to regulatory investigations, liability rarely sits with one party alone. Strategic identification of concurrent wrongdoers under the Wrongs Act 1958 (Vic) is often decisive in reducing exposure and maximising recovery.

With major new changes to building law in Victoria, builders, subbies and consultants need lawyers who know the new law.

At BU Lawyers we across the breadth of new building law changes in Victoria, we are also experts in insurance as well as building law. This means we are ready to help your team manage risk.

Defect Claims, Engineering Failures and Apportionment

Structural cracking, water ingress, footing failure and reactive soil movement frequently involve overlapping responsibility between:

Builders
Engineers (geotechnical and structural)
Building surveyors
Plumbers
Developers

Determining liability requires analysis of contractual scope, design responsibility, certification obligations and insurance coverage.

We focus on:

Proportionate liability strategy
Professional indemnity insurance engagement
Early expert briefing and forensic investigation
Solvency and recovery assessment

Engineering disputes are often won or lost on expert evidence. We work with leading geotechnical and structural experts who understand not only technical issues — but how to withstand cross-examination and conclave processes.

Plumbing Failures, Heave and Insurance Claims

Plumbing disputes frequently extend beyond installation issues.

Heave cases and ground movement may involve:

Soil reactivity
Stormwater or sewer failure
Water authority infrastructure
Design miscalculations

Claims may arise under the Water Act 1989, domestic building warranty insurance, professional indemnity policies or property insurance.

Liability turns on causation. Incorrect early assumptions can derail an otherwise viable claim. We coordinate forensic investigations and insurer notification to preserve coverage and strengthen recovery prospects.

If a project turns into an inquiry reach out to our team, we pride ourselves on our experience with the most complex geotechnical and structural engineering disputes.

Regulatory Investigations and Rectification Orders

The powers of the Building and Plumbing Commission are expanding.

Under recent legislative reform, failure to comply with a Rectification Order may constitute a disciplinary ground. Review rights exist but strict 28-day timeframes to apply to an appeal called a review to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal. There are many other issues that also need to be considered.

Regulatory proceedings against building professionals may also run parallel to civil defect litigation and can impact insurance responses and registration status.

Early strategic engagement: