Property & Owners Corporation Disputes

At Hassall’s Litigation Services, we assist individuals, property owners and businesses across Victoria to resolve residential and commercial property disputes efficiently and with confidence. With over 40 years of experience, our Melbourne-based lawyers are known for delivering practical legal advice and cost-effective outcomes tailored to each client.

We understand that property disputes can be stressful and time sensitive. Our team focuses on clear communication, strategic guidance and resolving issues as early as possible whilst strongly representing your interests when needed.

Common Disputes We Handle

Our lawyers provide advice and representation across a wide range of matters, including:

Contract Advice, Disputes and Disclosure Matters

Reviewing sale contracts, resolving contractual disputes, vendor statement issues, and failure to disclose material facts under the Sale of Land Act 1962 (Vic).

Contract Advice & Disputes

We review contracts of sale, advise on vendor statement (Section 32) obligations and assist with disputes involving misrepresentation, non-disclosure and breaches under the Sale of Land Act 1962 (Vic).

Boundary & Property Rights Disputes

We assist with fencing disputes, boundary issues, adverse possession claims, easements, restrictive covenants, rights of way and access or drainage concerns

Owners Corporation Disputes

Our lawyers advise lot owners, committees and managers on common property issues, rules and by-laws, disputes between owners, financial matters and governance concerns.

Commercial & Retail Lease Disputes

We act for landlords and tenants in leasing disputes, including rent reviews, lease breaches, maintenance obligations and enforcement of lease terms.

Planning & VCAT Matters

We represent clients in planning permit objections and appeals, including proceedings in VCAT relating to development and land use.

Loan & Mortgage Disputes

We assist with disputes involving loan agreements, mortgage securities, guarantees, defaults and enforcement action.

How We Can Help

Our approach is simple: resolve disputes early where possible and protect your position at every stage.

We prioritise negotiation and mediation to help clients avoid unnecessary legal costs and delays. However, if litigation becomes necessary, our experienced litigation team provides strong representation in all Victorian Courts and VCAT.

With Hassall’s, you’ll receive straightforward legal advice, practical solutions and responsive service from lawyers who understand the Victorian property landscape.

Planning Permit Disputes

Planning permit disputes can often significantly delay a property or development project and create uncertainty about the next steps causing much stress and tension. Hassall’s Litigation Services assists clients with planning disputes, including reviewing the issues, preparing the required documentation, and helping them navigate the relevant legal and procedural requirements and know their options.

Restrictive Covenant Removals

A restrictive covenant may limit how land can be used or developed. We assist property owners and other interested parties with applications and disputes concerning the removal or variation of restrictive covenants, including the preparation of supporting material required to progress the matter, helping all parties navigate the situation in the best possible way.

Easement Removals

Easements can affect the use, development, or value of a property. We provide practical advice on easement removal matters and assist clients with the documentation and legal process required to address an easement affecting their property or proposed project.

Enforcement Orders

Planning enforcement action can have significant consequences for property owners and project stakeholders. We assist clients in responding to enforcement matters, understanding their obligations, and preparing the documentation required to resolve or defend the proceeding.

Speak to us

If you’re dealing with a property or Owners Corporation dispute, getting early legal advice can make all the difference.

Contact Hassall’s Litigation Services today at admin@hls.net.au or (03) 95557233 to speak with an experienced lawyer and take the first step towards resolving your matter.

Our Services

Property Disputes

  • Property boundaries and encroachments
  • Fencing disputes and obligations
  • Deposit release disputes
  • Failure to disclose material facts
  • Contract condition breaches
  • Adverse possession
  • Co-ownership disputes
  • Commercial and retail leasing disputes

Owners Corporation Disputes

  • Common property repairs and maintenance
  • Owners Corporation financial disputes
  • Change of managers and governance
  • Rules interpretation and enforcement
  • Alterations and additions to lots

Planning Permits

  • Restrictive covenant removals
  • Easement removals
  • Enforcement orders
  • Planning objections and disputes

Frequently Asked Questions

Property disputes can often be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or formal dispute resolution processes before proceeding to court. The best approach depends on the nature of your dispute and the parties’ willingness to reach an agreement. 

Our property dispute lawyers can advise on the most appropriate pathway for your situation.

Generally, you should gather your title documents including Plan of Subdivision, correspondence between parties, photographs of the property or issue, council permits, planning documents and drawings, and any relevant Owners Corporation rules and meeting minutes.

It’s best to seek legal advice as early as possible when a property dispute arises. Early intervention can often prevent matters from escalating, save costs, and help preserve relationships where possible.

Do you have an enquiry?

If you need help with Property & Owners Corporation Disputes, please use the following form and we will promptly respond.

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