canningcc

Don’t Let Post-Construction Issues Cost You

The construction contract may be signed, sealed, and completed—but your liability hasn’t ended. The Defects Liability Period (DLP) is the critical specified period—typically 6 to 12 months—where defective work, latent defects, or structural defects often surface.

Without proper contract administration during this phase, building disputes become costly, and contractors’ liability becomes your problem.

At Canning CC, we manage the defect liability period with precision. From defect identification to enforcement, we protect your interests before the limitation period runs out and the original contractor’s obligations expire.

The build is done. Let’s make sure it was done right.


What Is the Defects Liability Period?

The defects liability period (or liability period) is the post-completion window in a construction contract where the contractor remains obligated to rectify any building defects, incomplete works, or non-compliant materials.

Its purpose is to:

  • Enforce the contractual obligation to correct defective work

  • Allow thorough inspections, remedial work, and final inspection

  • Ensure the retention sum isn’t released until all minor defects and major issues are resolved

  • Protect the property owner from hidden or latent defects that appear post-handover

But here’s the risk: without structured contract management, issue tracking, and documented processes, you may lose your chance to claim—resulting in economic loss or unresolved disputes.

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How We Manage the Defects Liability Period

We apply best-practice construction law oversight—not just box-ticking. Here’s how we handle your defects liability period:

Defects Register Setup

  • Create a digital, trackable record of all identified issues and rectification items

Scheduled & Reactive Inspections

  • Attend site for formal inspections, photographs, and reporting on defective work

Contract Compliance Review

  • Match defects to contractual obligations under the building contract or DLP clause

Enforcement & Follow-Up

  • Issue formal defect notices to the contractor, enforce remedial work timeframes

Final Certification & Close-Out

  • Advise on final inspection, retention release, and confirm all rectifying defects are resolved

All defects are documented and dated—ensuring accountability, traceability, and airtight legal protection.


Who Needs DLP Management?

You need expert oversight of the defects liability period if you’re:

  • A developer or property owner transitioning into occupancy or handover

  • A builder needing third-party quality assurance

  • A project manager overseeing contract close-out

  • A government body managing public or civil infrastructure

  • A facility manager fielding early maintenance calls

  • A construction lawyer or contracts specialist requiring formal evidence for dispute resolution

Don’t let common building defects become long-term headaches. The time to act is before the warranty period lapses.


Why Canning CC?

Independent Quality Assurance
We’re not tied to any contractor. Our job is to represent your best interest—objectively and transparently.

Legal & Contractual Fluency
From the Home Building Act to statutory warranties and Australian Consumer Law, we understand the compliance landscape.

Thorough, Traceable, Defensible
Every building defect is logged, tracked, and backed by evidence—perfect for resolving construction disputes or claims.

Nationwide Coverage
From luxury residential to major infrastructure, our team supports clients across Australia.

Don’t Let Defects Slide Under the Radar

Hidden defects become expensive when ignored—and contractors’ obligations don’t last forever.
Secure your position before the liability period ends.

→ Book a DLP review with our expert team.

Core Services


our-team

OUR TEAM

The team at Canning & Associates Cost Consulting is what makes us great. We're professional yet personable and we deliver an exceptional level of service - It's what our clients say!