Defect report or expert witness report: which does a Strathtulloh owner need?
We write a defect report for two readers: you and your builder. Tribunal evidence needs something different. How to choose.
In short: Most owners need a defect report that the builder can act on. A smaller number end up needing tribunal evidence, and that is a different document.
What a defect report does
It records each defect with photos, explains why it matters and refers it to the standard or tolerance it fails. It is written to get the work done.
What a defect report is not
It is not written to the VCAT expert evidence practice note and is not suitable as tribunal evidence.
The dispute pathway
Write to the builder first. If that fails, the Building and Plumbing Commission dispute resolution service (formerly DBDRV) can help. VCAT's Building and Property List is the last step.
When to upgrade
If the builder refuses to act and the matter is heading to VCAT, you need an expert witness report. We prepare those too, and the earlier defect report helps as background.
Keeping records
Keep every report, email and photo with dates. A clear history makes any later step easier.
Written by our local inspection team from work carried out in Strathtulloh. Licensed building practitioners, Building & Plumbing Commission registration CDB-U 53425.
