Understanding Your Rights Under the Domestic Building Contract

When you sign a domestic building contract in Victoria, you enter into a legally binding agreement that sets out the rights and obligations of both the builder and the homeowner. Understanding these rights is crucial to protecting your interests throughout the building process.

Key areas to be aware of include the cooling-off period, progress payment schedules, variation procedures, defect notification requirements, and your options if disputes arise.

Under the Domestic Building Contracts Act 1995 (Vic), homeowners have specific protections including the right to a cooling-off period of five business days after signing the contract. During this period, you can withdraw from the contract without penalty.

If you are entering into a building contract or experiencing issues with your current build, we recommend seeking legal advice early. Our team has extensive experience in reviewing, drafting, and advising on domestic building contracts.