A member asked
over 9 years ago
Do I need a solicitor to review a building contract?
Do I need a solicitor to review a building contract for a renovation?
Researchers at LawAdvisor
Hi there. Hiring a solicitor to review a contract is usually done as a risk minimisation measure. A solicitor will have experience in this type of contract, and will be able to assess whether or not the terms of the contract are fair to you, or whether there any any defects with them which may risk litigation in the future.
There are a number of things you should think about when deciding to hire a lawyer. You will have to ask yourself how much the contract is worth to you, both in monetary terms, and in terms of time if there are issues with it that hold up work or lead to work being done inadequately or as a result of significant delays. Then you will have to consider whether you are in a position enter into negotiations or litigation if issues arise.
With this in mind, if your building work is for a very small renovation, you may consider that the amount of cost and effort of seeing a solicitor is not worth it as compared to how much you are spending on the renovation. This is a decision you have to make with regard to the risks.
Building disputes are notoriously messy and expensive, and are one of the most common types of civil disputes at small claims tribunals and in the courts. Seeing a solicitor to review a contract before work starts can help guard against future problems. You will most likely find that many small law practices offer standard flat rates for routine contract reviews such as this.
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