South West

Dispute Resolution

Building and renovation work can be an involved process and a dispute may arise about the quality of work or materials or about the contract itself.   To avoid later disputes, there are some things to bear in mind from the outset of the building process. Initially, all promises, undertakings and concessions made in pre-contract […]

Electricity Connections and Headworks Charges

WA Electrical requirements provide for a standard supply up to: 63 Amps single phase (Perth and major towns) 32 Amps single phase (rural areas and small towns) 32 Amps per phase for multiphase (all areas) Consumer mains size of 35mm² (all areas) A large house with air-conditioning, pool and many appliances is likely to require […]

Extension of Time

Most building contracts allow the builder to claim an extension of time for completion of the project where there is a delay which could not reasonably be foreseen at the time of contract signing. Such delays could include strikes, unfavourable weather and unavailability of materials or labour. However, the exact terms of the building contract […]

Employer Record Keeping

Energy Rating

The Energy Rating Label was first introduced in 1986 in NSW and Victoria. It is now mandatory in all Australian states and territories for televisions, fridges and freezers, washers and dryers, dishwashers and air-conditioners to carry the label when they are offered for sale. The Energy Rating Labeling Scheme assists consumers with assessing the energy […]

Earthworks

Risk of Owner Earthworks   Some home owners take on the task of organizing the earthworks and their certification themselves, rather than the builder charging for the responsibility. The aim of this is often to reduce building costs, removing these works from the contract with the builder.   This in theory sounds fine, until you […]

Tips: First Home Buyer

First home buyer – tips Buying a first home can be a daunting experience. To make this process enjoyable, think about the following tips:   1.     Read the contract carefully Make sure that you understand all the terms and conditions. If not, ask!! 2.     Allow extra time for delays Despite the best intentions projects can run […]

Bricks

In the Perth metropolitan area, a large majority of all new homes are double brick structure. However in many regional areas of WA, framed construction is very popular. One of the main reasons why double brick is so popular is because of our sandy soil. The soil type is very stable with very little ground […]

Buying a Display Home

Investment in a builder’s display home may be a sound decision depending on your circumstances. Many builders sell and rent back their display homes to recover some of the capital construction costs. Usually a display home will have a limited life until a new development area is built out, so the lease back option can […]

Concrete Slabs – Shrinkage

Curing is a process which takes place when a concrete slab is laid. As concrete is being poured, fresh concrete is converted into a solid mass when the cementeous materials hydrate. The action taken after the slab is laid to ensure hydration is called curing. Curing is the protection of fresh concrete from evaporation. When […]