About Our Law Firm
At Contracts Specialist, we offer the residents of Bellingen and the surrounding areas of Fernmount, Brierfield, Gleniffer, Valery, Spicketts Creek, and Thora over 13 years of specialised expertise in construction debt recovery, including facets such as Security of Payment, adjudication, and litigation. We are deeply committed to providing tailored legal advice, understanding the distinct needs of builders and contractors in the construction industry.
Our approach is grounded in personalised service, ensuring direct communication and leveraging modern technology to keep you informed throughout your case. We are here to serve the builders and contractors exclusively in Bellingen and its neighbouring suburbs, offering expertise that is both deep and locally nuanced.

Construction Debt Recovery
In the building and construction industry, it is not uncommon to face situations where payments are overdue. Fortunately, there are several avenues available to recover the money owed to you, including:
- Issuing a letter of demand to the concerned party
- Utilising statutory demands as a formal request for payment
- Engaging in alternative dispute resolutions such as mediation to find a middle ground
- Applying for adjudication under the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 (NSW) to legally enforce payment
- Seeking assistance through NSW tribunals or courts for legal adjudication
As a debt recovery lawyer servicing Bellingen and the surrounding areas of Fernmount, Brierfield, Gleniffer, Valery, Spicketts Creek, and Thora, I am here to assist you in navigating these pathways effectively to ensure you receive the payment you are due. Reach out to Contracts Specialists for dedicated support in construction debt recovery.
Our Services
Letter of Demand
Payment Claim
Utilising the provisions of the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 (NSW), we assist you in issuing compliant payment claims. This ensures regular and prompt payments for your construction work and related services, even without progress payment provisions in the contract.
Adjudication Application
Guidance through the adjudication process under the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 (NSW) is provided, facilitating faster resolution before resorting to court proceedings in cases of payment schedule disagreements or delays.
Tribunal and Court
We stand by you in navigating the complex legal landscape efficiently, aiding in drafting your Statement of Claim and enforcing judgement debts through the NCAT or court proceedings when necessary.
Leveraging over 13 years of experience in construction law, each service is meticulously crafted to offer you the most effective pathway to recover your debts.
Benefits of Our Services
Time and Money Savings
Ensuring Satisfaction
Successful Outcomes
Meet Our Principal Lawyer
At Contracts Specialist, our Principal Lawyer is none other than John Dela Cruz, a luminary in the field of construction law with a rich history of over 13 years in the industry. John has dedicated his career to assisting contractors and builders in the NSW construction sector, offering unrivalled expertise in Security of Payment and debt recovery services.
John’s journey in the legal landscape is marked with notable roles including serving as a legal counsel for a Dow 30 construction company and taking on responsibilities as a Government Solicitor. His leadership shone through as the Divisional President of the Master Builders Association (NSW), and as the founder of Small Builders Building Software.
With a comprehensive understanding of construction law, John is adept at drafting and reviewing a wide array of construction contracts, encompassing residential, commercial, and subcontractor agreements. His extensive knowledge spans across all Australian states, offering clarity and guidance on common legal issues in commercial and construction management contracts. His expertise stands as a beacon of reliability for clients in Bellingen and the surrounding areas.
Get Legal Advice
Understanding the debt recovery process is pivotal for building and construction contractors. While executing the work impeccably is one part of the equation, ensuring timely and full payment is another critical aspect. The pathway to recovering unpaid debts encompasses both non-court and court options, each with its own set of procedures and implications.
At Contracts Specialist, we are here to illuminate the best courses of action available to you, grounded in legal expertise and a deep understanding of the industry dynamics in Bellingen and its surrounding areas. Allow us to guide you in making informed decisions, leveraging strategies that are both effective and tailored to your unique circumstances. Let’s ensure that your hard work translates into the payment you rightfully deserve.