Building a house or hiring a contractor involves a large sum and is a common source of disputes — on both the owner's and the contractor's side — from unfinished work and abandonment to off-spec building and non-payment of instalments.
Common disputes
- Contractor abandons the job / runs past the deadline
- Work doesn't match the spec or isn't up to quality
- Claiming instalments beyond the work actually done
- Owner not paying instalments, or changing the design without agreeing extra cost
It comes down to the contract and evidence
Most problems arise from a loosely drafted or non-written contract. You should have: a clear scope and drawings; work/payment instalments tied to progress; deadlines and late-penalties; conditions for rework and termination; and a workmanship warranty.
What to do when there's a problem
- Keep full evidence — contract, drawings, instalment invoices, progress photos, communications.
- Record delays and defects with dates.
- Don't pay the final instalment or sign off if the work isn't right.
- Consult a lawyer to negotiate, claim damages, or terminate per your rights.
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If you have a construction dispute — as owner or contractor — talk to our team to protect your rights and claim correctly.