Building and Construction Disputes
Building and construction disputes can derail projects, damage commercial relationships and quickly become expensive if not managed strategically. At Cronin Miller Litigation, we act for builders, subcontractors, developers, owners and consultants across the Gold Coast, Brisbane and wider Queensland to resolve construction disputes efficiently and commercially.
Our focus is on early, practical intervention to protect your position, preserve cash flow and minimise disruption to your project or business. Where litigation is required, we are experienced advocates who run matters with a clear strategy and outcome in mind.
Who We Act For
We understand the different pressures on each participant in the construction industry and tailor our advice accordingly.
We regularly act for:
- Builders and head contractors in domestic and commercial projects.
- Subcontractors and trades seeking to secure or recover payment.
- Property developers, project managers and investors.
- Owners and body corporates in residential, strata and mixeduse developments.
- Consultants and suppliers, including engineers and other professionals in the supply chain.
Types of Building and Construction Disputes
Disputes in the building industry are common and often timecritical. Our team assists with the full range of issues that arise before, during and after construction, including:
- Defective and incomplete work – claims about workmanship, noncompliance with plans or standards, and rectification scopes and costs.
- Delay and disruption – extensions of time, liquidated damages, acceleration claims and associated cost disputes.
- Variations and scope changes – disputes about whether variations are agreed, properly documented or payable.
- Payment and Security of Payment – unpaid progress claims, adjudication applications and responses, and enforcement of determinations under security of payment legislation.
- Termination and repudiation – wrongful termination, suspension rights and recovery of losses following contract breakdown.
- Regulatory and compliance issues – licensing, statutory warranties, and dealings with regulators and tribunals.
- Body corporate and strata construction disputes – common property defects, disputes with builders and developers, and recovery actions.
Whether your matter involves a domestic building contract, a commercial development or a large infrastructure project, we can step in at any stage of the dispute.
How We Resolve Construction Disputes
We know that in construction, time and cash flow are critical. Our approach is to resolve disputes as quickly and costeffectively as possible while maintaining a strong legal position.
Our services include:
- Early risk assessment and strategic advice – identifying your rights, exposure and options at the outset so you can make informed decisions.
- Contractual notices and correspondence – drafting and responding to notices of dispute, suspension, default and termination, and preparing detailed letters of demand.
- Negotiation and “without prejudice” settlement – engaging with the other party to explore commercial outcomes and avoid formal proceedings where appropriate.
- Mediation and alternative dispute resolution – representation at mediations, settlement conferences, expert determinations and arbitrations.
- Adjudication under Security of Payment – preparing or defending adjudication applications and enforcing or challenging determinations.
- Tribunal and court proceedings – running building and construction matters in QCAT, other tribunals and the Queensland and federal courts, including urgent injunctions and enforcement steps.
At each stage we keep you informed about prospects, risks, likely timeframes and costs so that the legal strategy remains aligned with your commercial objectives.
Building and Construction Contract Advice
Many disputes can be avoided or significantly reduced through careful contract work at the outset. We assist with:
- Drafting and reviewing building contracts, subcontracts and consultancy agreements.
- Advising on risk allocation, payment and variation regimes, defect and warranty provisions, and termination clauses.
- Projectstage advice on contract administration, notices, variations and managing emerging issues before they escalate. This proactive support helps protect margins and relationships across the life of a project.
Why Choose Cronin Miller Litigation for Construction Disputes?
Cronin Miller Litigation is a Gold Coastbased litigation firm with a strong focus on commercial disputes, including complex property and construction matters. Our partners and senior lawyers are regularly involved in significant real estate and construction disputes for clients throughout South East Queensland.
What sets us apart:
- Dispute and litigation focus – we are a litigationdriven practice, experienced in negotiation, mediation and running contested hearings when required.
- Commercial and industry insight – we act for a wide range of participants in the property and construction sector and understand the commercial realities they face.
- Strategic, outcomedriven approach – we concentrate on prompt, practical resolutions that protect your cash flow and reputation while preserving future opportunities where possible.
Contact Our Building and Construction Disputes Team
If you are facing a building or construction dispute, early advice can significantly improve your position and the prospects of a commercial resolution.
Contact our Building and Construction Disputes team in Gold Coast or Brisbane to arrange a confidential discussion about your matter and the steps available to protect your interests.