Building dispute in Queensland: the steps, in order

Most building disputes are about work that isn’t up to standard, work that isn’t finished, or money. Most can be sorted out without a tribunal if you follow the steps in order.

1. Talk to your builder

Raise the problem early and calmly. Many disputes end here. Make a note of what was said and when.

2. Put it in writing

If talking doesn’t fix it, write to the builder. Say what the problem is, what you want done, and give a reasonable date. Keep a copy, along with photos of the problem.

3. Check where things stand

Check the builder’s licence on this site and on QBCC’s licence search. Find your contract and any written variations. If the builder has stopped work, read my builder walked off the job.

4. Go to QBCC

If you still can’t agree, contact QBCC. Most disputes QBCC deals with are about defective work, and QBCC may be able to help you and the builder reach an agreement. You can lodge a complaint about defective work as the property owner.

5. The tribunal

If QBCC can’t resolve it, the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) hears building disputes. For a home building dispute you normally need to go through QBCC first, and QBCC gives you a letter to take to QCAT.

Time limits matter

Home warranty insurance and QBCC complaints have time limits, some only a few months. Don’t wait to see if a problem goes away. Read QBCC’s pages, linked below, as soon as a dispute starts.