Hi all, To the legal people here, is there a regulator/ombudsman for building contract disputes in NSW? Our builder on a few of our construction projects is trying to charge an exorbitant figure for a contract extension. I've escalated this to one of their executives however i'd also like to investigate a possible Plan B. Any advice is appreciated. Thanks Al
Fair trading is your go-to. Why are they claiming eot? Are there timeframes regarding notification and qualification of claims? Are they legitimate? Were they able to be mitigated? Are they preconstruction eg council? or inclement weather, material availability, lack of decision-making on your part (or your consultants) for PCs or details? If all else fails, read the contract: clauses on variations, adjustment of pc sums and extensions of time.
@Scott No Mates , thanks for the head's up. Didn't think of Fair Trading. The builder is trying to charge a ridiculous amount as a contract extension (circa 7% of build costs) until the construction starts in a few months time. There is no established logic behind their calculations - simply reeks of profiteering.