Building Code changes means consumers will enjoy better access to dispute resolution services, according to a dispute resolution company.
FairWay Resolution chief executive Greg Pollock is trumpeting the recently passed Building (Residential Consumer Rights and Remedies) Regulations 2014. The changes to the Building Act come into force in January 2015.
Mr Pollock says FairWay has been working with the building industry to resolve emerging issues with consumers before they escalate into costly and intractable disputes.
The growth of alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation and facilitation, reflects a worldwide trend towards early intervention to avoid the time and expense involved in litigation, he says.
Mr Pollock says the service will help individuals and businesses resolve their dispute as early as possible without needing to go to court.
FairWay handles around 12,000 disputes per year, which are spread across work for Accident Compensation Corporation, Telecommunications Dispute Resolution scheme, the Financial Dispute Resolution Scheme, and Family