We understand that experiencing a builder’s bankruptcy can be a challenging and stressful situation. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s essential to understand your options and take the necessary steps to protect your investment.
At GW Homes, we have helped many clients navigate the complex process of dealing with a builder’s bankruptcy. In this article, we will provide you with the information you need to understand the implications of a builder’s bankruptcy and offer guidance on how to protect yourself and your investment.
What is a Builder’s Bankruptcy?
A builder’s bankruptcy occurs when a building company goes out of business due to financial difficulties. When this happens, the builder is no longer able to complete the construction of a property, leaving the owner in a precarious position.
What Happens to My Property?
If your builder goes bankrupt, you may be left with an unfinished property. This can be an incredibly stressful situation, and it’s essential to understand your legal rights.
The first step is to review your contract with the builder. This will outline the terms of the agreement, including the completion date and the scope of the work. If the contract has been breached, you may be entitled to compensation.
It’s also important to note that if your property is not yet at lock-up stage, it may be possible to engage a new builder to complete the construction. However, if the property is at lock-up stage or beyond, it may be more challenging to find a new builder to take on the project.
What Are My Options?
If your builder goes bankrupt, you have several options. These include:
Contacting the Administrator
The first step is to contact the administrator of the building company. The administrator will be able to provide you with information on the status of the company and what your options are.
Contact the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC)
To explore your options and get assistance in case of builder insolvency, the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) is the regulatory body to contact. As the governing authority for the building and construction industry in Queensland, the QBCC offers a range of resources for affected parties, including a dispute resolution service. We recommend getting in touch with the QBCC as soon as possible to discuss your options.
At GW Homes, we have a proud history of working closely with the QBCC to help our clients finish their dream home in cases where the original builder has gone bankrupt.
Engaging a New Builder
If your property is not yet at lock-up stage, it may be possible to engage a new builder to complete the construction. However, it’s important to ensure that the new builder is reputable and has the necessary licenses and insurance.
Selling the Property
If you are unable to find a new builder to complete the construction, you may need to consider selling the property. While this may not be an ideal solution, it can help you recoup some of your investment.
How Can I Protect Myself?
To protect yourself from a builder’s bankruptcy, it’s essential to take the following steps:
- Do Your Research
Before engaging a builder, do your research. Check their credentials, licenses, and insurance, and read reviews from previous clients.
- Ensure the Contract is Comprehensive
Make sure the contract you sign with the builder is comprehensive and covers all aspects of the work to be completed.
- Make Payments in Stages
Rather than paying the builder in full upfront, make payments in stages as each stage of the construction is completed. This will help protect your investment if the builder goes bankrupt.
- Engage an Independent Inspector
Engage an independent inspector to review the construction work at each stage. This will ensure that the work is up to standard and reduce the risk of any issues arising down the track.
Experiencing a builder’s bankruptcy can be a stressful and challenging situation. However, by understanding your options and taking the necessary steps to protect yourself, you can minimise the impact on your investment.
At GW Homes, we are here to help. If you have any questions or concerns about a builder’s bankruptcy, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
