Navigating Building Warranty and Insurance Claims

Building warranty insurance is a mandatory requirement for residential building work over $16,000 in Victoria. It provides homeowners with protection if their builder is unable to complete the work or fix defects.

Under the Building Act 1993 (Vic), structural defects have a warranty period of 10 years, while non-structural defects carry a warranty period of 6 years from the date of the occupancy permit or certificate of final inspection.

If you discover defects in your home, it is important to notify your builder in writing as soon as possible. Keep detailed records of all defects, including photographs, dates, and any correspondence with your builder.

If your builder is unresponsive or disputes the claim, you may need to lodge a complaint with the Victorian Building Authority or commence proceedings at VCAT. Our team can guide you through this process.