Building contracts, defects and disputes, for owners and builders.
Whether you're about to sign a building contract or something has gone wrong on site, we help you understand your rights and move the project forward.
Talk to us about your matter
Meet online, or in person at our office (by prior appointment). We usually reply within one business day.
Construction Law at Asher Freeman Lawyers
Asher Freeman Lawyers is a law firm in Chadstone, Victoria that helps home owners and builders with construction law, including building contract reviews, defects, delays, variations and domestic building disputes at DBDRV and VCAT. We act for clients across Victoria, online or in person at our Chadstone office (by prior appointment), and quote fixed fees wherever possible.
Our construction law services
Building contract review
Advice on domestic building contracts before you sign, with a quick turnaround.
Defective or incomplete work
Assessing claims against a builder for defects and non-compliant work.
Delays and variations
Disputes over extensions of time, variations and progress payments.
DBDRV applications
Lodging and running disputes through Domestic Building Dispute Resolution Victoria.
VCAT building list
Representation in domestic building disputes at VCAT.
Advice for builders
Contract terms, payment disputes, extensions and defending claims.
Subdivisions and consolidations
Working with surveyors to subdivide or consolidate land.
Payment claims
Security of payment claims and recovering unpaid progress payments.
What to know about domestic building disputes in Victoria
Read the contract before you sign
Payment stages, allowances, variations and the completion date all affect your risk. Changes are easiest to negotiate before signing.
DBDRV usually comes first
Most domestic building disputes must go to Domestic Building Dispute Resolution Victoria before VCAT. A well-prepared application gives you the best chance of an early outcome.
Keep good records
Photos, emails, variation requests and inspection reports are vital evidence. Start a file as soon as a problem appears.
Three simple steps
Meet with us online, or in person at our Chadstone office (by prior appointment).
Send us the documents
The contract, plans, correspondence and any reports or photos.
Get clear advice
We assess your position and explain the options and likely costs.
We act for you
We negotiate with the other side and run the matter at DBDRV or VCAT.
Rated 5.0 from 35 Google reviews
“…very professional and helped us in understanding complex material in layman’s terms. Carried out the work in a very timely manner and clarified our questions really well.”
“Even after the sale completed, she continued to follow up with the bank and the authorities on my behalf to make sure everything was in order…”
“This firm is probably the most efficient one I have ever had to use… She was also very responsive and gave me constant updates.”
Construction Law: frequently asked questions
What can I do if my builder's work is defective?
Notify the builder in writing and keep records. If it isn't fixed, the dispute usually goes to Domestic Building Dispute Resolution Victoria and then, if needed, VCAT. We can manage each step for you.
My builder is behind schedule. What are my options?
It depends on the contract terms, including any allowed extensions of time. We'll review the contract and correspondence and advise on the next steps.
Do you act for builders as well as home owners?
Yes. We advise builders on contracts, variations, payment disputes and defending claims.
Should a lawyer review my building contract?
It's a good idea. A building contract is a major financial commitment, and a review can identify risks before you're bound by them.
Last reviewed October 2026. This page provides general information only and is not legal advice. Contact us for advice about your situation.
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Book a consultation Call (03) 8657 4994