Domestic Building Disputes

Changes to the Building Legislation Amendment (Consumer Protection) Act 2016 (The Act) came into effect on 26 April 2017.

These changes to the Act require most domestic building disputes to be referred to Domestic Building Dispute Resolution Victoria (DBDRV) before proceedings can be issued in VCAT or a Court.

Domestic Building Dispute Resolution Victoria (DBDRV) is a free independent government agency that provides free services to help resolve domestic building disputes. DBDRV aims to resolve residential building disputes through conciliation. It has the power to issue binding dispute resolution orders and certificates if conciliation is not successful.

DBDRV can handle disputes regarding: 

  • construction
  • alterations and renovations
  • extensions
  • associated building work such as garages, driveways, swimming pools and spas
  • demolition
  • some types of home repairs

 If you have a domestic building dispute, visit the Domestic Building Dispute Resolution website.