Building & Construction Lawyers Sydney & NSW
- Construction and Building Disputes
- Building Defects, Delays and Claims
- Debt Recovery and Adjudication
- Delivery of Major Projects
Expert Building & Construction Law Services For:
Builders & Contractors
Supporting you with getting paid, resolving disputes and compliance and contract guidance.
Home Owners
Guarding homeowner interests in home builds, renovations and builder disputes with expert advice.
Developers
Facilitating project success with compliance, dispute management, and legal & commercial support.
Project Managers
Ensuring smooth project delivery with expert contract administration and legal support.
Tradespersons
Helping you secure payments, navigate contracts, and resolve disputes efficiently.
How Our Sydney Construction Lawyers Can Assist You
Contract Drafting & Review
We draft, review, and negotiate clear and robust construction contracts – from standard AS forms to bespoke agreements – to protect your interests and minimise project risk.
Construction Dispute Resolution
We provide strategic representation to resolve construction disputes efficiently through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, always focused on protecting your commercial interests.
Security of Payment Claims
We provide expert guidance on claims under the Security of Payment Act (SOPA), assisting both claimants and respondents with payment claims, schedules, and adjudications.
Building Defect Claims
We act for owners corporations, builders, and developers in all aspects of building defect claims, providing clear advice on liability, statutory warranties, and resolution strategies.
Project Advisory & Risk Management
Our lawyers provide proactive, front-end legal advice on project structuring, procurement, and risk management to help you avoid disputes and deliver your project successfully.
NCAT & Court Representation
We offer expert advocacy and representation for all building and construction matters in the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) and all relevant courts.
Workplace Health & Safety (WHS)
We advise on regulatory compliance with Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws, helping you manage site risks, respond to incidents, and minimise your legal liability.
Insurance & Liability Advice
We assist clients in navigating complex insurance claims and liability issues, including professional indemnity, public liability, and contract works insurance disputes.
Contractual Dispute Management
We advise on and manage disputes arising from construction contracts, including claims related to breach of contract, variations, extensions of time, and project delays.
Our Process to Resolving Construction Law Matters in Sydney
1
Initial Consultation & Case Analysis
We begin by thoroughly assessing your legal and commercial position. This first step allows us to understand your objectives, analyse the key issues, and provide you with clear, initial advice on your options.
2
Strategic Planning & Advice
Based on our analysis, we develop a clear, actionable legal strategy tailored to your specific goals. Whether it involves risk mitigation, contract negotiation, or a dispute pathway, our advice is always commercially focused.
3
Effective Implementation & Advocacy
We put our strategy into action with precision and skill. This may involve drafting meticulous legal documents, engaging in strategic negotiations, or providing powerful advocacy for you in NCAT or court.
4
Achieving Outcomes & Ongoing Support
Our focus is always on achieving the best possible outcome for you. We manage your matter proactively to its conclusion and provide ongoing support to protect your interests, ensuring a successful resolution.
Rated 5-Star By Our Clients
Why NSW Clients Trust Our Sydney Construction Lawyers
50+ Years NSW Construction Law Experience
With decades of focused experience, our team has assisted builders, developers, and owners in complex construction matters before NCAT, the District Court, and the Supreme Court of NSW.
Strategic & Commercial Advice
We offer clear, practical advice focused on your commercial objectives, helping you navigate complex construction laws and contracts to make informed, strategic decisions for your project.
Effective Project & Dispute Solutions
We provide efficient solutions for contract management, risk mitigation, and dispute resolution—including Security of Payment claims and defect disputes—to protect your financial interests.
Dedicated Client Communication
We provide honest communication and treat every matter with personal care. You’ll always know your project’s legal status and feel supported and informed throughout the process.
Meet Our Team - Sydney Construction & Building Lawyers
What is Building and Construction law in NSW?
In NSW, construction law is the branch of law that deals with the legal aspects of building and construction projects, such as contracts, disputes, liability, insurance, licensing and regulation. In New South Wales (NSW), Australia, construction law is governed by various legislation and common law principles.
- The main legislations that govern construction law in NSW are the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 (NSW) which provides a mechanism for resolving payment disputes between parties in the construction industry;
- the Home Building Act 1989 (NSW) which sets out the rights and obligations of homeowners and builders in relation to residential building work; and
- the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (NSW), which regulates the planning and approval process for development projects in NSW.
We Are Here To Support You In Your Building & Construction Law Matter
When it comes to building and construction projects in Sydney and across New South Wales, you need a legal team with deep industry knowledge and expertise. At PBL Law Group, our building and construction lawyers are renowned for providing strategic guidance that protects our clients’ interests throughout the entire project lifecycle.
From drafting airtight contracts that mitigate risks to resolving complex construction disputes, we offer end-to-end legal advice tailored to the unique needs of builders, contractors, developers, homeowners, and all industry stakeholders. No project is too large or too small – our experience spans everything from residential renovations to billion-dollar infrastructure developments.
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FAQs about Construction Law
What does your firm specialise in?
Our firm specialises in building and construction law, offering comprehensive services for all legal matters related to the construction industry and construction projects. From advising on contracts to resolving disputes, we cover all aspects of the building and construction sector.
How can your team assist with construction contracts?
Our construction lawyers are well-versed in handling a wide range of construction contracts, ensuring that all legal aspects are sound and in compliance with statutory regulations. We provide guidance on contract drafting, negotiation, and interpretation to protect our clients’ interests.
Do you handle disputes within the construction industry?
Yes, we have extensive experience in resolving construction disputes through various means such as negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation. Our team aims to find efficient and effective solutions to disputes that may arise during construction projects.
What legal issues do you cover in the Australian building and construction law?
Our services encompass all legal issues within the Australian building and construction industry, including compliance with security of payment legislation, building contracts, and safety legislation. We stay updated on the latest legislation amendments to provide accurate advice.
How do you assist subcontractors in the construction field in new South Wales in 2025?
Our services encompass all legal issues within the Australian building and construction industry, including compliance with security of payment legislation, building contracts, and safety legislation. We stay updated on the latest legislation amendments to provide accurate advice.
What should I do when my construction project experiences delays?
If a construction project suffers delays, the principal, contractors and subcontractors may have different options depending on the cause and extent of the delay, as well as the terms of the contract. Some possible options are:
- Claiming an extension of time (EOT) to complete the work without being liable for liquidated damages or penalties. This option is usually available if the delay is caused by factors beyond the control of the parties, such as adverse weather, force majeure events, or variations ordered by the principal.
- Claiming additional costs or damages for the delay. This option is usually available if the delay is caused by the breach or negligence of the other party, such as failing to provide access to the site, defective work, or interference with the work.
- Terminating the contract for repudiation or frustration. This option is usually available if the delay is so severe that it makes the completion of the work impossible or impracticable, or if it shows that the other party has no intention to perform their obligations under the contract.
However, these options are not always straightforward and may depend on various factors such as the type of contract, the notice requirements, the evidence of delay and its impact, and the dispute resolution process. Therefore, it is advisable to seek legal advice from a specialist construction law firm before taking any action in relation to a delayed construction project.
What are some examples of high-risk areas in construction contracts?
Construction contracts in NSW involve various areas of high risk that are important and every client should be aware of. Some of these areas are:
- Deadlines for claims: The Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 sets strict timeframes for making and responding to payment claims. Failing to meet these deadlines can result in losing the right to claim or dispute a payment.
- Mandatory notices: The principal and the contractor are required to give each other certain notices under the contract, such as notices of delay, variation, dispute, suspension or termination. These notices must comply with the contract terms and be given within the specified time limits, otherwise they may be invalid or ineffective.
- Administrative requirements: The contract may impose various administrative obligations on the parties, such as keeping records, submitting reports, attending meetings, obtaining approvals, effecting insurance and providing security. These requirements must be fulfilled to ensure the smooth running of the project and to avoid breaches or disputes.
These are just some examples of the high-risk areas in construction contracts that can lead to legal difficulties if not carefully addressed and managed. If you are dealing with these concepts, we recommend seeking legal support from PBL Law Group’s legal specialists in construction law.
I'm a contractor and I am owed payments. What should I do?
If you are a building and construction contractor who has completed work or supplied goods or services for a project, you have the right to receive payment by the due date. However, sometimes you may face a situation where the other party does not pay you on time or at all. This can cause serious financial and legal problems for your business. In such cases, you should take action as soon as possible to recover your money and protect your interests.
One option is to use the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 (NSW) (SOP Act), which allows you to make a payment claim and apply for adjudication if the claim is disputed or ignored. The SOP Act is designed to provide a fast and cost-effective way to resolve payment disputes in the industry.
Another option is to issue a letter of demand, which is a formal request for payment that sets out the amount owed, the deadline for payment, and the consequences of non-payment. A letter of demand can sometimes prompt the debtor to pay or negotiate a settlement. If the letter of demand is unsuccessful, you can also issue a statutory demand, which is a legal notice that requires the debtor to pay within 21 days or face the risk of being wound up by the court. A statutory demand can only be used if the debtor is a company and the debt is over $2,000.
Alternatively, you can try to reach a commercial settlement with the debtor through alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods, such as mediation, arbitration, or expert determination. ADR can be a cost effective way to help you avoid or minimise litigation and preserve your business relationship with the debtor. However, ADR requires both parties to agree to participate and abide by the outcome. We highly recommend seeking proper legal advice on your unique situation to ensure your rights are properly enforced.
I am involved in a construction dispute. What should I do?
If you are involved in a construction project in NSW and you have a disagreement with another party, you should try to resolve it as quickly and amicably as possible. Disputes can cause delays, costs and stress for everyone involved. For example, you may face penalties for breaching your contract, or lose your right to claim payment for your work. You may also damage your reputation and relationship with the other party. Therefore, you should try to negotiate a settlement with the other party or use alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation or arbitration. These methods are usually faster, cheaper and more flexible than going to court. They can also help you preserve your relationship and find a mutually acceptable solution.
However, if these options fail, you may need to take legal action in the appropriate court or tribunal. Depending on the nature and value of your dispute, you may need to apply to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT), the Local Court, the District Court or the Supreme Court. However, before you do so, you should seek professional advice from a construction lawyer who can assess your situation and advise you on the best course of action. A law firm specialising in construction law matters can help provide the right legal advice for you to resolve any current disputes relating to a construction project and prevent future disputes.
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Construction & building projects, disputes & litigation, building defects, delays & claims, debt recovery & more…
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Creating, updating & contesting wills, estate planning & administration, probate applications & more…
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Starting & scaling your business, banking & business financing, bankruptcy & insolvency & more…
Planning & Environment Law
Environment & planning regulation, land and environment court disputes, sub-divisions & more…
