Expert witness services Melbourne
Are you unhappy with the quality of construction work that has been performed on your property? Or, have you been accused of poor workmanship or construction defects that you feel are unfounded as a builder?
Construction disputes can be complex and costly, and it can be difficult to navigate them without the right expertise. With our specialised knowledge and experience, our engineers can provide objective opinions on technical issues and help you resolve disputes related to construction or engineering projects.
Technical expertise
We provide objective opinions to resolve construction disputes in a way that's understandable to non-experts.
Unbiased and objective engineers
We are objective and effective at communicating opinions and conclusions to key decision-makers.
Evidence-based approach
Our engineers use a rigorous, evidence-based approach to investigate problems, helping to resolve disputes based on facts instead of biases.
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Why clients choose to work with Arbiter Group
Registered engineers
We are highly knowledgeable in past and present Australian building codes and standards.
Comprehensive reports
Our reports are in-depth and easy to read. Engineering principles are explained with our conclusions.
Trusted advice
We provide unbiased assessments and advice, based on experience in forensic engineering and design.
End-to-end services
Our inspections, reports and designs are conducted in-house. This lessens unknowns for projects.
Make informed decisions with our unbiased expertise
Engaging a forensic engineer as an expert witness can be a critical step in achieving a fair outcome in disputes related to construction and engineering projects. Our engineers have the specialised knowledge and expertise to analyse complex engineering problems and provide technical explanations in a manner that is for non-experts to understand. By presenting their objective and evidence-based opinions, our engineers can help decision-makers reach a well-informed conclusion, without providing unrealistic expectations or biased opinions.
Whether it's determining the cause of structural damage or assessing the quality of construction work, our engineers can provide a thorough and professional assessment of the situation. By examining all available evidence, including data, documentation, and physical observations, we can identify the root cause of the problem and provide recommendations for how to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future.
Wall frame overhanging a slab during construction of a house, northern suburbs Melbourne 2022.
Image supplied by Arbiter Group
How does a building dispute arise?
Home Owners
If you're a homeowner, a building dispute can arise either during the construction process or even years after the completion of your building. Structural damage is a common issue that may occur, such as significant cracks in the walls or uneven floors, which could indicate poor workmanship or substandard materials. Water damage is another concern that can arise from leaky balconies or insufficient waterproofing, which may lead you to suspect negligence on the part of the builder.
Strata or Owner’s Corporations
Building disputes can arise from a variety of reasons, including disputes with contractors and builders over the quality of work, delays in project completion, disagreements over the allocation of common property expenses, insurance claims, and disputes over building defects. Shared ownership in strata buildings can lead to complexities in decision-making and disputes between owners, which can escalate quickly and become challenging to resolve without professional assistance.
Builder
As a builder, it's possible that you may face disputes with homeowners, owner’s corporations, or other stakeholders regarding alleged poor workmanship or structural defects. It's important to keep in mind that in some cases, structural damage may not be caused by any fault on your part, but rather by factors such as weather events, soil conditions, or natural footing movement. However, unfounded claims can still impact your reputation as a builder and potentially lead to legal action, making it essential to handle disputes effectively and seek expert opinions.
How we can help you
At Arbiter Group, our team of forensic engineers offers unbiased and expert analysis of construction work, providing objective evidence to identify the root cause of any structural defects or failures. Whether you are a builder, homeowner, or owner's corporation, we can act as an independent third party to help resolve disputes in a timely and fair manner. Our goal is to ensure that all construction work is done to an acceptable standard, providing peace of mind for all stakeholders involved.
If you are currently in the initial stage of one-to-one negotiations with the other party, please be aware that our engineering report will be shorter and not necessarily compliant with VCAT's requirements.
One-to-one negotiations or mediation can be expedient processes towards resolution.
Mediation
Unfortunately, not all building disputes can be resolved in a timely or professional way. In this instance, you may need to go to the Domestic Building Dispute Resolution Victoria (DBDRV). DBDRV facilitate structured negotiations between the parties to help them reach an agreement.
Our expert engineering reports can equip you with the information you need to make well-informed decisions and strengthen your negotiating position during the dispute resolution process. Please note that this type of engineering report is shorter than a VCAT report and will not be VCAT compliant.
VCAT building dispute
If you find yourself in a situation where your building dispute has not been successfully resolved through one-to-one negotiations or the DBDRV, it may be necessary to proceed to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). It is critical at this stage to ensure that you have the best possible chance of achieving a favourable outcome.
At Arbiter Group, we understand the complexities of VCAT's requirements for resolving building disputes. Our team can tailor our engineering reports to meet the PNVCAT2 compliance standards, ensuring that the evidence we present at the tribunal is fully aligned with VCAT's requirements.
Our engineering process for building disputes:
Get in touch
Call us or fill out the online form. Describe the issues and steps you’ve taken towards resolution. We will respond within 48 hrs
Inspection
We’ll visually inspect the site, including the roof and subfloor cavities, and conduct a floor level survey (if safe/applicable)
Resolution
Our reports can aid in achieving a quicker resolution through negotiations/DBDRV, and can be made PNVCAT compliant if it proceeds to VCAT.
Engineering report
Our detailed report assesses whether the work has been done to an acceptable standard and includes recommendations.
Follow up discussion
Our engineers are available for discussion once you have read the report, or have questions while negotiating with the other party.
