Other helpful services

If we can't help resolve your dispute, or you need more information, one of these services may be able to assist.

For general information on the building process, visit Nail your build.

Consumer Affairs Victoria

Consumer Affairs Victoria provides general information and advice for home owners and builders, to assist them throughout the duration of a building project. This includes information on building contracts, plans and permits, deposits and payments and building as an owner builder.

The Consumer Affairs Victoria website also lists the steps to try and resolve a building dispute before applying to our service.

For more information:

• home owners: visit the Building disputes, defects and delays page of the Consumer Affairs Victoria website.
• builders: visit the Builders and tradespeople section of the Consumer Affairs Victoria website.

Regulation, Registration and Licensing

The Building and Plumbing Commission (BPC) regulates building and plumbing in Victoria. We register and license practitioners, inspect works, and take action when standards aren’t met.

This function was previously managed by the VBA and is now part of the BPC.

• Find a registered or licensed builder or plumber
• Apply or renew your registration or licence
• Check the disciplinary register
• Login to BAMS, eToolbox or VBA 360

Domestic Building Insurance

Domestic Building Insurance (DBI) helps protect homeowners when something goes wrong with their building project. This service was previously delivered by the Victorian Managed Insurance Authority (VMIA) and is now part of the BPC. It applies to most residential work over $16,000.

• Learn about DBI cover
• Check if you're covered
• Make a DBI claim

Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria (DSCV)

The DSCV provides free dispute resolution services for neighbourhood disputes between property owners, including fences, trees and drainage. For more information, visit the DCSV website.

Architects Registration Board of Victoria (ARBV)

The ARBV registers architects, approves companies and partnerships, and handles complaints about architects

For more information, visit the ARBV website.

Legal Services

If you wish to obtain legal advice about your rights and obligations in relation to your dispute, one of these services may be able to assist.

Law Institute of Victoria (LIV)

LIV offers a referral service that can help you find a lawyer to assist with your dispute.

For more information, visit the Legal Referral Service section of the LIV website.

Domestic Building Legal Service (DBLS)

Justice Connect's DBLS provides advice and assistance to eligible home owners whose domestic building disputes were not resolved by us. It can assist home owners who do not have access to legal help and advice from other sources.

For more information, visit the DBLS website.

Industry associations

Relevant industry associations often provide legal advice and information to members in relation to domestic building disputes.

For more information, contact your relevant industry association.