Builder won't fix problems

[Mirv]

Hi all,

I have a unfolding issue that I hope some of the RE old hands might be able to assist with. I purchased an IP off the plan that settled over nine months ago. At the three month mark, several significant warranty issues with the building were discovered and issued to the builder. To date, the builder has delayed, obfuscated, or just plain ignored ALL communication to rectify the problems.

I (and the tenant) have obviously been far too patient to let it get to this point; I was hoping there might be some experience/know-how on these boards about the quickest/most painless methods to "motivate" the builder to do his freaking job. I realise there may be differing laws in various states, if it helps this is in SA.

Cheers,

 

[tj22]

i don't know much about builders but because they have a builders licence, i would go to the building authority that gave him his license as they could probable could do something / put a black mark against his name.

 

[boeman]

Make sure you have in writing you requests for issues to be fixed.

Then go to the Builders Registration Board with your complaint. If the claim is substantiated (which it most likely will be by the sounds of it) they will certainly get a wriggle on with fixing all the claims, since no registered builder wants to lose their licence as it is not an easy thing to obtain (not anymore anyway, still some cowboys around from the days when it was handed out).

Only thing that may affect it is if there is painting, electrical or plumbing defects, as these trades have their own licensing bodies what will need to be involved.

 

[Scott_Snap]

The building company is stalling and needs to be motivated. Boeman & TJ are correct in contacting the Builder's registration board. I would not only be documenting the issues but getting face to face with them while getting them to sign minutes of the meeting as an accurate and true record including time frames and dates of expected repairs or even document their refusal to repair. I would suggest sending the request for mediation from my legal representation. Nothing says I am serious like a legal letterhead. I would also spend the money on getting a proper expert report on the property by someone who is a specialist handover / settlement inspector as they will more than likely pick up more issues and give you a bigger stick to hit with at the mediation. If nothing else it may help calm your mind there is no other issues involved.

 

[Peterw]

From my understanding, if its "building" issues, then the Body Corporate is the one who should be taking the builder on. If they are "unit" issues, then yes you "banding together with other unit owners should be lodging complaint with the relevant government agency.

 

[Pete Ramoza]

I'd agree that a nicely worded formal letter from your legal rep should get the ball moving a bit faster. Otherwise, get together with the body corporate and take it to the regulatory authority.

 

[Scott_Snap]

Is it a body corp. ? If it is the legal letter should come from the body corporate.