My builder did defective work. What are my rights?

General information from Lawmateanz

For residential building work in New Zealand, the Building Act 2004 gives you implied warranties. These include that the work will be done properly and competently, with suitable materials, and in line with the building consent and the Building Code.

For a year after the work is completed, the builder must fix defects you notify them about in writing, within a reasonable time.

Claims for breach of the warranties can generally be brought up to 10 years after the work was done. Keep the contract, photos, emails and any expert reports.

Disputes can go to the Disputes Tribunal for claims up to $60,000, or to the courts, and mediation is often a good first step. Building Performance (building.govt.nz) has free guidance.

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