Understanding Construction Disputes
What is a Construction Dispute?
A construction dispute refers to any disagreement or conflict that arises during a construction project, typically involving matters such as contract interpretation, delays, variations, scope changes, defective works, or payment entitlements (quantum). These disputes can occur between clients, contractors, subcontractors, consultants, or suppliers, and can quickly escalate if not managed effectively.
In the construction industry, disputes are unfortunately common due to the complex nature of projects, changing site conditions, and the involvement of multiple stakeholders. Without appropriate processes in place, disputes can lead to prolonged delays, significant financial losses, strained relationships, and in some cases, legal proceedings.
CCR supports clients across Australia and the APAC region to resolve construction disputes efficiently and strategically. Our team of highly experienced professionals includes quantity surveyors, engineers, planners, contract specialists, and expert witnesses—all working collaboratively to protect your commercial interests and minimise disruption. Drawing on decades of combined experience, we provide end-to-end support in dispute avoidance, resolution strategy, claims preparation, expert reports, and formal proceedings.
It’s Time to Avoid Costly Delays – Speak with a Construction Dispute Expert Today!
Common Pain Points in Construction Disputes
Construction disputes can have serious implications if not addressed early. Some of the most common pain points we see include:
Cost Overruns
Disputes over variations, claims, or scope changes often result in unexpected costs that can derail project budgets.
Delays to Program
Delayed decision-making or unresolved issues can cause project timelines to slip, triggering further cost penalties and reputational damage.
Poor Communication
Misalignment between stakeholders—such as unclear instructions, misinterpreted contract terms, or ambiguous documentation—often leads to disagreements.
Resource Drain
Time spent on dispute resolution takes valuable resources away from project delivery and team productivity.
Legal Risk Exposure
Without proper technical preparation, parties may enter legal proceedings under-prepared, increasing the risk of losing a claim or failing to defend one.
Loss of Working Relationships
Disputes can permanently damage relationships between contractors, subcontractors, and clients—affecting future collaborations.
Reputational Impact
Ongoing or public disputes can harm your company’s reputation in the market, particularly when projects are high-profile or government-funded.
At CCR, we aim to minimise these pain points by resolving matters early and aligning our dispute resolution strategies with your broader business objectives.
Worried About Disputes Derailing Your Project? Request a Free Consultation with CCR Today.
How CCR Can Help
At CCR, we don’t just resolve disputes—we help prevent them. Our approach to construction dispute management is built on years of practical industry experience, strategic insight, and technical rigour.
Our Expert Advisory Team works across all stages of the dispute process—from early advisory and issue identification to structured negotiations, claims preparation, and expert witness representation. We tailor our services based on the complexity of the issue, your available internal resources, and the most appropriate resolution pathway.
Our Services Include:
Facing a Complex Dispute? Ask us about our Expert Advisory Services!
FAQs
CCR is experienced in all these methods and can guide you toward the most effective pathway for your specific dispute.
The best way to avoid a construction dispute is to maintain clear communication, accurate documentation, and contract compliance throughout a project. Engaging CCR early in the project—particularly during contract reviews, progress monitoring, and change assessments—can help identify and mitigate issues before they escalate.
You should engage a dispute resolution expert as soon as an issue becomes contentious or there is a risk of financial or program impact. Early involvement allows for faster resolution, strategic preparation, and a stronger position if the dispute moves to formal proceedings. CCR can assist from initial advisory through to expert testimony.
Depending on the contract and the nature of the disagreement, disputes may be resolved through:
- Adjudication: A quick, binding (but interim) resolution process, particularly common under Australia’s Security of Payment legislation.
- Mediation: A non-binding facilitated negotiation process aimed at achieving a mutually acceptable outcome.
- Arbitration: A binding decision made by a third party, often used for large-scale or international projects.
- Expert Determination: An impartial expert reviews the matter and issues a non-binding or binding decision based on technical merit.
Don’t Wait for the Dispute to Escalate – Contact CCR Early and Let Us Advise You!