There seems to be a lot of people now being owner builders. It
may be because of the popularity of shows like The Block and House
Rules and the desire to purchase property as an investment,
renovate and then sell for a nice gain.
However our Building and Construction Lawyers meet a lot of
owner builders who are not aware that they can be sued.
An owner builder gives the same promises as a builder who enters
into a building contract with someone to carry out work. An owner
builder can be sued for defective works.
The promises include that the building work was performed in a
proper and workmanlike manner. This is highlighted in a recent
case.
A couple wanted to extensively renovate their
home. The husband travelled regularly for work so the wife
decided that she would hold the owner builders licence. She then
entered into contracts with all tradespeople and co-ordinated all
of the works on site. Once the works were finished they sold the
property.
