If a builder has taken your deposit or a progress payment and walked off the job, stopped work, or never really started, you have options. In Victoria a domestic building deposit is capped by law — generally 5% of the contract price for contracts of $20,000 or more (10% for smaller contracts). We help you demand your money back and hold the builder to the contract.
Part of our Building & construction practice.
We check the contract, the deposit cap, and exactly what you’ve paid versus what was done.
A firm, lawyer-drafted demand for your money back or for work to resume — often enough on its own.
Domestic Building Dispute Resolution Victoria (free conciliation) and then VCAT if it isn’t resolved.
For a domestic building contract, the deposit is generally limited to 5% where the contract price is $20,000 or more, and 10% where it is under $20,000. A deposit above the cap may be recoverable — get advice on your contract.
Start with a formal demand, then Domestic Building Dispute Resolution Victoria (DBDRV) conciliation, and VCAT if needed. If the builder is insolvent, a Domestic Building Insurance claim through VMIA may also be available. We can guide the fastest path.
General information only — for advice about your situation, get a free quote or book a consult.
Speak with an experienced Victorian building lawyer — book online, or call us 7 days.
