NCAT Legal Advice and Representation

About Our Law Firm

At Contracts Specialist Solicitors and Attorneys, we are experts in providing legal services to homeowners in Parramatta and surrounding suburbs, including Carlingford, Dundas, Dundas Valley, Epping, Ermington – Melrose Park, and Newington, in NCAT matters, particularly building disputes. We offer tailored legal services to meet each client’s specific needs, including legal representation, advice

What is NCAT?

NCAT, the New South Wales Civil and Administrative Tribunal, is a statutory body that provides a forum for resolving various disputes, including building and construction disputes, offering affordable and accessible justice to people across New South Wales.

Operating under the Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 2013, NCAT is divided into several divisions, including the Consumer and Commercial Division, the Administrative and Equal Opportunity Division, and the Occupational Division.

The Consumer and Commercial Division handles building and construction disputes, responsible for hearing matters related to residential and commercial building disputes, such as incomplete or defective work, non-payment of money, variations, and breaches of contract. The NCAT’s jurisdiction for building disputes arises from the Home Building Act 1989 (NSW).

NCAT aims to resolve disputes quickly, efficiently, and cost-effectively, avoiding a lengthy and expensive court process. It encourages parties to resolve disputes through mediation or conciliation, but if a resolution cannot be reached, NCAT can make binding orders to resolve the matter.

NCAT is accessible and user-friendly, providing services to assist parties in navigating the dispute resolution process, including information and guidance on procedures and forms required, as well as assistance with dispute resolution, such as mediation or conciliation.

NCAT Legal Services We Offer

As a specialised construction lawyer with extensive experience in NCAT matters, we offer a range of legal services to assist homeowners in resolving their building disputes.

Legal Representation

We provide legal representation at NCAT hearings. Our principal lawyer can represent you in negotiations with the other party and present your case in the most persuasive manner to achieve the best possible outcome.

Legal Advice

We provide legal advice on your building dispute. We can advise you on the strengths and weaknesses of your case, as well as provide guidance on the legal procedures and requirements of NCAT.

Document Preparation

We can assist you in preparing the necessary documentation required for your building dispute. This may include preparing the application, submissions, evidence, and other relevant documents.

Dispute Resolution

We can assist you in resolving your building dispute through alternative dispute resolution processes, such as mediation or conciliation. This can help you avoid the time and expense of a formal hearing.

Referral to Building Experts

We have a large network of experienced building experts who we can refer to assist with building disputes. These experts can provide specialist advice on issues such as defects, incomplete works, and variations.

Directions and Final Hearing

During directions hearings, which are a series of hearings conducted to speed up proceedings and settle the matter, the NCAT may order the submission of pleadings, affidavit evidence, witness statements, written submissions, expert reports. In the final hearing, evidence is offered, witnesses are presented, direct and cross-examination are conducted. We can prepare all the documents you need with a keen eye for detail, and represent you with a commitment to upholding your contractual and statutory rights.

NCAT Appeal

The appeal process is an important aspect of resolving NCAT home building disputes. It allows parties to challenge decisions made by NCAT and seek a review of the decision. However, appealing a decision is a complex process that requires a thorough understanding of the relevant laws and procedures. It’s crucial for parties to gather all relevant documentation, seek legal advice, and prepare thoroughly for the appeal. Ultimately, seeking professional advice can help parties navigate the process more effectively and increase their chances of success. We can assist with every stage of the appeal process.

Why Hire an NCAT Lawyer

Hiring an experienced NCAT lawyer can provide numerous benefits when it comes to resolving your building dispute.

1. NCAT Advice and Assurance

For starters, you will get the right advice and be guided through the process of your proceedings and dispute resolution.

2. Expertise in Building and Construction Law

A lawyer with experience in building and construction law can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the legal issues involved in your dispute. They can provide you with legal advice on the strengths and weaknesses of your case, as well as assist you in navigating the complex legal process.

3. Legal Representation

A lawyer can represent you at the hearing and advocate for your interests. They can present your case in the most persuasive manner and ensure that your legal rights are protected.

4. Negotiation

A lawyer can negotiate with the other party to try and reach a settlement before the hearing. This can save you time and money and may result in a more favourable outcome than if the matter proceeds to a hearing.

5. Evidence and Documentation

A lawyer can assist you in gathering and organising the evidence and documentation needed to support your case. They can also advise you on the types of evidence that will be most persuasive to the Tribunal.

6. Procedural Knowledge

A lawyer with experience in NCAT matters can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the legal procedures and requirements of the Tribunal. This can help you to avoid any pitfalls or mistakes that may harm your case.

Meet Our Principal Lawyer

Contracts Specialist is led by John Dela Cruz, a building and construction lawyer with over a decade of experience in advising and representing homeowners in NCAT matters, particularly in building disputes. John has dedicated his career to helping clients resolve complex legal issues related to building and construction projects.

Throughout his career, he has represented clients in a wide range of disputes, from defects and incomplete works to variations, quantum meruit, suspension of works, termination of contracts, repudiation, and other common building law and contractual disputes. His experience covers both the consumer and commercial divisions of NCAT, as well as the appeals panel.

While he is based in Sydney, he offers his services to homeowners across New South Wales who require legal advice or representation in NCAT proceedings. He understands that building disputes can be stressful and overwhelming, and he is committed to providing practical and effective legal solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs.

Over the years, he has developed an extensive network of experienced building expert witnesses who he is able to refer to assist with building disputes. He has developed strong relationships with these experts, and they have proven to be valuable in helping build strong cases for clients.

He has a comprehensive understanding of the working procedures and administration of the NCAT, NCAT registry, and hearings. This knowledge enables him to provide informed and strategic advice to clients, helping them achieve the best possible outcome for their building dispute.

Get Legal Advice

Resolving a building dispute can be a complex and challenging process, but with the help of an experienced NCAT lawyer, you can achieve the best possible outcome. At Contracts Specialist Solicitors and Attorneys, we specialise in providing legal services to homeowners in NCAT matters, particularly in building disputes.

Whether you require legal representation or legal advice, we are committed to providing you with the highest quality of legal services. We have extensive experience in representing clients in building disputes and a deep understanding of the legal procedures and requirements of NCAT.

If you require the services of an NCAT lawyer, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible outcome in your building dispute and providing you with the support and guidance you need throughout the legal process.

By seeking expert legal advice early on, you can avoid complex legal issues and protect your interests. Contact us today to schedule a legal consultation and learn more about how we can assist you.

Resolve Your Home Building Dispute Swiftly and Successfully: Take the Next Step

Our legal services are tailored to the specific needs of each client. We understand that building disputes can be complex and stressful, and we are committed to providing clients with the guidance and support they need to resolve construction disputes in the most efficient and cost-effective manner.

Anyone can make an application to NCAT and attend a hearing without legal representation. However, in some cases, it may be beneficial to have legal representation to ensure the best possible outcome in your building dispute.

While you are not required to have a lawyer to attend an NCAT hearing, there are some circumstances where you may need leave of the Tribunal to have legal representation. For example, leave may be required if the matter involves complex legal or factual issues or if the other party has legal representation. Another basis is if the monetary value of your claim exceeds the relevant threshold.

If you are unsure whether you need legal representation for your building dispute in NCAT, it is always best to seek legal advice. As an experienced NCAT lawyer, I can provide you with the guidance and expertise you need to make informed decisions about your legal matter.

If you require legal representation or advice for your building dispute in NCAT, please do not hesitate to contact me. We are dedicated to providing you with the highest quality of legal services for homeowners, builders, and contractors in Parramatta, Carlingford, Dundas, Dundas Valley, Epping, Ermington – Melrose Park, Newington, and surrounding areas. We are committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome in your dispute.