DWS Building Co.

Terms & Conditions

Last updated: 7 November 2025

1. Agreement to Terms

By accessing our website (https://dwsbuildingco.com.au/) or engaging our services, you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions. DWS Building Co. (ABN: 12 345 678 901, License: DB-U 12345) provides building and renovation services in accordance with Victorian building regulations and Australian consumer law.

2. Services

2.1 Scope of Services

We provide the following building services:

  • Kitchen renovations
  • Bathroom and ensuite renovations
  • Deck and pergola construction
  • Outdoor living and entertainment areas
  • General home renovations

2.2 Service Limitations

All services are subject to site inspection, feasibility assessment, and compliance with local building codes. We reserve the right to decline projects that are outside our scope of expertise or that may pose safety or legal concerns.

3. Quotes and Estimates

3.1 Fixed-Price Quotes

We provide detailed, fixed-price quotes following an initial site consultation. Quotes are valid for 30 days from the date of issue unless otherwise specified.

3.2 Quote Variations

Quotes may be subject to variation if:

  • The client requests changes to the scope of work
  • Unforeseen structural issues are discovered during demolition
  • Significant price increases occur in materials or labor costs
  • Additional permit requirements are identified
  • Site access or working conditions differ from the initial assessment

All variations must be agreed upon in writing before proceeding.

4. Payment Terms

4.1 Payment Schedule

Standard payment schedule for renovation projects:

  • Deposit (10%): Due upon acceptance of quote to secure materials and scheduling
  • First Progress Payment (40%): Due upon completion of demolition and rough-in work
  • Second Progress Payment (40%): Due upon substantial completion of installation work
  • Final Payment (10%): Due within 7 days of practical completion and final inspection

4.2 Payment Methods

We accept payment by bank transfer, credit card, or direct debit. All prices are in Australian Dollars (AUD) and include GST unless otherwise stated.

4.3 Late Payment

Progress payments must be made within 7 days of invoice. Late payments may result in work suspension until payment is received. Interest may be charged on overdue amounts at the rate of 2% per month or the maximum rate permitted by law, whichever is lower.

5. Project Timeline

5.1 Commencement and Completion

Project timelines are estimates based on standard working conditions. We will provide a detailed project schedule upon contract signing. Delays may occur due to weather, material availability, permit approvals, or client-requested changes.

5.2 Client Responsibilities

Timely project completion requires:

  • Prompt approval of selections and design decisions
  • Timely payment of progress invoices
  • Clear site access during working hours
  • Removal of personal items from work areas
  • Cooperation with inspections and approvals

6. Permits and Approvals

We will obtain all necessary building permits and ensure compliance with local building codes. Permit costs are included in quoted prices unless otherwise specified. Delays in permit approval are outside our control and may extend project timelines.

7. Warranties

7.1 Workmanship Warranty

We warrant that all work will be performed in a professional and workmanlike manner in accordance with applicable building standards. Defects in workmanship will be remedied at no charge within the warranty period.

7.2 Waterproofing Warranty

Waterproofing work in wet areas (bathrooms, ensuites, laundries) is warranted for 10 years from the date of practical completion in accordance with AS/NZS 3740 standards.

7.3 Manufacturer Warranties

Materials and fixtures are covered by manufacturer warranties, which will be provided to you upon project completion. We are not responsible for manufacturing defects but will assist with warranty claims where possible.

7.4 Warranty Exclusions

Warranties do not cover:

  • Normal wear and tear
  • Damage caused by misuse, negligence, or unauthorized modifications
  • Failure to perform recommended maintenance
  • Damage from events beyond our control (extreme weather, fire, flood)
  • Issues arising from client-supplied materials

8. Insurance

We maintain comprehensive public liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. All subcontractors engaged on your project carry appropriate insurance coverage. Proof of insurance can be provided upon request.

9. Client Materials

If you choose to supply your own materials, you are responsible for ensuring they meet Australian standards, are delivered on time, and are in sufficient quantity. We are not liable for delays or quality issues related to client-supplied materials.

10. Site Conditions

10.1 Access

You must provide clear, safe access to the work site during agreed working hours (typically 7am-5pm, Monday-Friday). Additional access charges may apply for restricted or difficult access sites.

10.2 Site Security

You are responsible for site security outside of working hours. We recommend securing valuable items and informing your home and contents insurance provider of renovation work.

10.3 Utilities

Access to electricity and water is required during construction. Utility costs during the project are your responsibility unless otherwise agreed.

11. Changes to Work

Requests for changes to the approved scope of work must be submitted in writing. We will provide a variation quote for approval before proceeding with additional work. Changes may affect project timeline and cost.

12. Cancellation and Termination

12.1 Cooling-Off Period

Under Victorian consumer law, you have a 5-business-day cooling-off period from the date of signing a domestic building contract. Cancellation during this period may incur a cancellation fee to cover reasonable costs incurred.

12.2 Cancellation After Commencement

If you cancel after work has commenced, you are liable for all work completed, materials ordered, and reasonable costs incurred including subcontractor cancellation fees.

12.3 Termination by Us

We may terminate the contract if:

  • Payment is not made within 14 days of the due date
  • You repeatedly interfere with the progress of work
  • Site access is unreasonably restricted
  • We discover site conditions that make completion unsafe or illegal

13. Dispute Resolution

If a dispute arises, we encourage resolution through direct discussion. If this is unsuccessful, disputes may be referred to Domestic Building Dispute Resolution Victoria (DBDRV) or the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) in accordance with Victorian building legislation.

14. Limitation of Liability

Our liability is limited to the value of the contract or the cost of rectifying defective work, whichever is lower. We are not liable for indirect, consequential, or incidental damages including loss of use, alternative accommodation costs, or emotional distress.

15. Privacy

Your personal information is handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy and Australian Privacy Principles.

16. Intellectual Property

Design concepts, drawings, and specifications prepared by us remain our intellectual property. You receive a license to use these materials for the specific project only. Reproduction or use for other purposes requires our written consent.

17. Compliance with Laws

All work is performed in compliance with:

  • Building Act 1993 (Vic)
  • Building Regulations 2018 (Vic)
  • National Construction Code (Building Code of Australia)
  • Australian Consumer Law
  • Occupational Health and Safety regulations
  • Local council planning and building requirements

18. Subcontractors

We engage licensed subcontractors for specialized trades (plumbing, electrical, tiling, etc.). All subcontractors are vetted for qualifications, licensing, and insurance. We remain responsible for their work as part of our overall contract with you.

19. Defects Liability Period

A defects liability period of 12 months applies from the date of practical completion. During this period, we will return to rectify any defects arising from our workmanship at no additional cost.

20. Force Majeure

We are not liable for delays or failure to perform due to events beyond our reasonable control including natural disasters, pandemics, labor disputes, material shortages, government actions, or utility failures. Project timelines may be extended by the period of delay.

21. Photographic Rights

We may photograph completed projects for marketing and portfolio purposes. If you do not wish your project to be photographed or featured, please advise us in writing before project commencement.

22. Entire Agreement

These Terms and Conditions, together with the signed contract and any written variations, constitute the entire agreement between you and DWS Building Co.. Verbal statements or representations are not binding unless confirmed in writing.

23. Amendments

We reserve the right to update these Terms and Conditions. Updated terms will be posted on our website with a revised "Last Updated" date. Existing contracts remain subject to the terms agreed upon at the time of signing.

24. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions continue in full force and effect.

25. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of Victoria, Australia. Both parties submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Victorian courts.

Contact Information

For questions about these Terms and Conditions, please contact us: