Share on LinkedInShare on LinkedIn

ARTICLE · 26 JANUARY 2026

Case Note: Grech V Dakota Homes Pty Ltd (Building And Property) [2025] VCAT 944

This decision reinforces the high evidentiary threshold required to establish defective building work under the DBCA.

AustraliaLitigation, Mediation & Arbitration

Jurisdiction: Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), Building and Property List
Members: R Bennett & C Bennett
Hearing Date: 21 July 2025
Decision Date: 23 October 2025

Representation

Applicants: Kevin Grech and Jennifer Grech (Grech's) (represented by Mr J Gray of Just Law, solicitor)

Respondent: Dakota Homes Pty Ltd (Builder) (represented by Mr A Germano of Counsel, instructed by PCL Lawyers)

Factual Background

The Grechs entered into a domestic building contract with the Builder for the construction of a new single-storey dwelling in Wallan, Victoria. The contract was executed on 17 March 2018, with works completed in June 2019. The Grechs alleged defective building work, particularly in relation to the footings and roof, and sought substantial damages, including the cost of rebuilding or rectification. The Builder counterclaimed for the outstanding contract balance ($12,924.30).

We operate a free-to-view policy, asking only that you register in order to read all of our content. Please login or register to view the rest of this article.

See more popular content from