Do I need a written contract with my builder?

General information from Lawmateanz

For residential building work in New Zealand worth $30,000 or more (including GST), the builder must use a written contract that includes certain information, such as a description of the work, the price, start and finish dates, and how disputes will be resolved.

Before you sign, the builder must also give you a checklist and disclosure statement about their skills, insurance and guarantees.

Even for smaller jobs, a written agreement is wise, because it avoids arguments about what was agreed.

Builders who don't meet these requirements can be fined. Building.govt.nz has a free contract checklist and template.

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