Understanding Practical Completion
In a residential building contract, practical completion is an important milestone that marks the point where the construction work is substantially complete and ready for use. The HIA Contract provides a definition of Practical Completion in Clause 21, which states that practical completion is achieved when the work has been completed in accordance with the plans and specifications to a stage where it can be used for its intended purpose. However, achieving Practical Completion does not necessarily mean that the work is defect-free, as minor defects or omissions may remain. It is important for homeowners to understand what Practical Completion means, as it triggers important contractual obligations for both the homeowner and the builder, including the issue of the Notice of Practical Completion and the start of the defects liability period.
Delays in Practical Completion
Delays during Practical Completion are a common issue faced by homeowners who have signed a residential building contract under the HIA Contract. There are many different causes of delays, including inclement weather, a lack of supplies, a labour shortage, or unexpected circumstances.
Your Legal Rights as Homeowner
As a homeowner, you have certain legal rights when it comes to Practical Completion of your building project under the HIA contract. The Home Building Act 1989 (NSW) provides protection to homeowners and sets out the rights and obligations of builders.
You might have the right to ask the contractor to correct any defects in the completed work. The builder must correct defects in accordance with the HIA contract within a specific time period. You may be entitled to compensation or the option to file a legal action if the builder declines to correct those defects.
If there are delays in completing the work, you may also have the right to claim compensation. The HIA contract provides for liquidated damages to be paid to the homeowner in the event of delays. This is an agreed sum of money that the builder agrees to pay for each day that the project is delayed beyond the practical completion date.
Remember, it is important to keep records of all communications with your builder and to take photographs of any defects or incomplete work. This will be helpful in any legal action or dispute resolution process.
Dealing With Disputes
If a dispute arises between a homeowner and a builder about practical completion, there are several steps that can be taken to resolve the matter.
Firstly, it is important to try to resolve the dispute directly with the builder. This can be done through negotiation or mediation. If this is not successful, the homeowner can seek assistance from the Office of Fair Trading, which can provide advice and assistance in resolving disputes.
If the dispute cannot be resolved through negotiation or mediation, the homeowner can apply to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) for assistance. NCAT can hear disputes between homeowners and builders and make orders to resolve the matter.
It is important to note that there are time limits for making a claim in NCAT. For example, claims for defective building work must be made within six years of the completion of the work.
The homeowner may also seek legal advice from a construction solicitor if the dispute includes a breach of a statutory warranty, such as a defect in the building work. The solicitor can assist in identifying any breaches of the Home Building Act 1989 (NSW) and advise on the best course of action to take.
Handover and Final Completion
Once the builder has rectified all defects and completed any outstanding works, the final stage is the handover of the property to the homeowner. A final inspection is conducted at this stage to make sure all the work has been finished in accordance with the construction contract, the plans, and the specifications. A Certificate of Final Inspection, which certifies that the building has been finished in accordance with the construction contract and the homeowner may take possession of the property, will be given if the inspector is satisfied.
The homeowner must make sure that the contractor provides every documentation, including warranties, manuals, and compliance credentials, at the time of handover.
Get Expert Construction Contract Review and Advice
Get Your HIA Contract Reviewed Now
Step 1: Simply fill out this form and upload your contract.
Step 2: We’ll review it and return to you with a fixed fee quote.
Minimise construction risks on cost, time, and quality.
Get Home Building Contract Review and Advice now.
Conclusion
The process of practical completion can be stressful and complex for homeowners, particularly when disputes arise. However, it is essential to understand your rights and obligations under the HIA contract and the Home Building Act 1989 (NSW).
Choose a reputable builder, read and understand your contract, and seek professional advice from a specialist construction lawyer.
Remember that timely communication, documentation, and cooperation between the homeowner and the builder can go a long way towards resolving disputes and achieving a satisfactory outcome for both parties.
Contracts Specialist is a law firm specialising in construction law, and is led by an experienced industry expert. We provide legal advice to homeowners and builders in NSW, and represent them in tribunals and courts. We assist clients in navigating practical completion disputes and advise them on their contractual rights, risks, and obligations.
