Building Disputes

Because all building work is unique, and it is impossible for buyers to see the actual 'product' they are buying before they receive it, building services is one of the most contentious areas of dispute between buyers and sellers. In addition to the quality of the work, there can also be disparity between what clients and builders envisage in terms of materials, timing, and even costs. Whether you are on the buyer or seller side of building, it is always essential that a written contract is made for every piece of work, no matter how big or small. This need not necessarily be an expensive process, as it is often possible for a solicitor to draft a 'standard' contract for you, with the particulars to be completed for separate pieces of work. This still allows both parties a comprehensive document to back to, in the event of any dispute.

Where disputes cannot be resolved between the two parties, taking early legal advice can still avoid further costs in the long run. Many specialists have experience in less formal legal remedies involving Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), such mediation or arbitration involving an independent third party, which can avoid the need to go to court, and keep better relations between both parties so that the work might still be completed. Of course, in many cases, the dispute will require more normal legal action, with both parties requiring advice on bringing, and defending, a claim through the courts. For both sides, legal experts will have access to experienced surveyors who can be used as expert witnesses in the case.