Domestic Building Dispute Resolution Victoria (DBDRV) is an independent government agency that provides free services to help resolve domestic (residential) building disputes.
This service was established to resolve domestic building disputes without the cost and time often associated with courts and tribunals.
If you experience an issue during a residential building project, you need to try to resolve the dispute yourself before you apply to the DBDRV. This is a legislative requirement, so you will need some proof showing how you have tried to resolve the dispute. This may include notes from meetings or email records.
If you are unable to resolve the issue(s) during your initial meeting with the other party, i.e. owner or builder (or other parties), you must write to the other party outlining any remaining issues. In this letter, you must advise them of your next step, which might include lodging an application with DBDRV.
To begin resolving your dispute through DBDRV, simply visit their website and click on the “application” button.
The Chief Dispute Resolution Officer has the power to issue binding dispute resolution orders and certificates. Builders, please note that if the dispute involves any defective works, the Chief Dispute Resolution Officer will report them to the Victorian Building Authority after the conciliation process is completed.
Speak to us for further information and if you are not eligible to use the DBDRV. We can also help you with the next steps, if the matter fails to resolve at DBDRV.
This article provides information that is general in nature and is not a substitute for legal advice.
Domestic Building Dispute Resolution Victoria (DBDRV): https://www.dbdrv.vic.gov.au/
