We are experienced in all aspects of the construction process - consents and planning, preparation and negotiation of contracts, procurement, contract management and dispute resolution.

Whatever your building project, whether you are project managing a large scale commercial development or building your family home, it always pays to get sound advice to ensure that you've got the confidence to deal with any issues that might arise during the build quickly and effectively.

Our specialists collaborate extensively with our clients to support and assist construction projects from conception to completion. We understand the construction industry and the pressures our clients are under to manage and deliver projects on time, on-budget and safely.

We assist our clients with applying for building consents and we provide advice on the issues involved in considering and granting building consent applications, including statutory interpretation, compliance issues, notices to fix and changes of use. We have also been involved in a number of enforcement proceedings under the Building Act 2004, representing both local authorities and defendants.

Our team has an in-depth knowledge of the most widely used construction contracts in New Zealand, including standard industry documentation such as construction contracts NZS3910, NZS3915, NZS3916 and NZS3917. We assist our clients to understand their rights and obligations under building and construction contracts, to find the most appropriate contract for their particular project and to draft and negotiate bespoke conditions to ensure the best possible commercial and legal outcomes

When it comes to resolving construction disputes, our specialists have experience in all forms of dispute resolution, including expert reviews, mediations, adjudications, arbitrations and litigation. We work with our clients to understand their drivers and enjoy finding pathways to resolve disputes as quickly as possible so as to expedite project delivery. 

 

Building Consents and Regulation

We have a thorough understanding of all aspects of the Building Act 2004 and associated regulations, and we regularly advise clients on the interpretation of and compliance with the Building Act and Building Code. 

Our experience includes:

  • Assisting clients to apply for building consents
  • Advice regarding interpretation of the Building Act 2004 and Building Code
  • Enforcement 

Construction Contracts

We are experienced in all aspects of the construction process, whether it be your family home or a large scale residential or commercial development.

Our experience includes:

  • Advice regarding the Construction Contracts Act 2002
  • Advice regarding payment claims and payment schedules
  • Advice regarding implied warranties

Construction Disputes

We act for builders, developers, construction companies and property owners. We represent our clients in all forms of dispute resolution including: 

  • Weathertight Homes claims
  • Mediations and negotiations
  • Adjudications
  • Arbitrations
  • Civil procedures in the District Court and High Court, including summary judgment proceedings and injunctions.

Our experience includes claims involving:

  • Payment claims and payment schedules under the Construction Contracts Act 2002
  • Outstanding invoices and debt recovery, including charging orders
  • Implied warranties and negligence
  • Defective works

Lauren responded promptly to our request and provided strong support throughout the process we engaged her for. Beyond factual and legal advice, she also offered valuable strategic advice. We felt she always had our best interests in mind, and the result was a positive outcome to the situation we found ourselves in.

Michael Braggins - Managing Director, Clelands Construction

I have used Lauren Wallace and Rebecca Eaton of Govett Quilliam on two occasions to assist with court proceedings relating to weathertightness disputes. Their knowledge of the Building Act, professionalism and negotiating skills were outstanding and I would have no hesitation in using them again if the need arises.

Johnny Aitken

Construction Specialists

Lauren Wallace

Partner

Rebecca Eaton

Senior Associate

Heather Froude

Senior Associate

Contact the Construction Specialists

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