Does my builder have to give me a written contract in NSW?
Researched by the LokalMatch editorial team1 answer
The quote for our deck came by text and the builder wants to start next week.
Answers (1)
LokalMatch EditorialLokalMatch editorial
Over 5,000 dollars, a written contract is compulsory in New South Wales. Between 5,000 and 20,000 the law allows a short form — a small jobs contract — and above 20,000 dollars the contract has to be a far more detailed document.
The small jobs version still has to carry real content: both parties' names, the contractor's licence number, a description of the work, the plans and specifications, the contract price, and a clause about the quality of construction complying with the Building Code of Australia.
Above 20,000 dollars the list grows to things worth reading before you sign. Signatures, a detailed description of the work, the warranties, the contract price shown prominently, the cost of the Home Building Compensation Scheme cover, a clause requiring variations to be in writing, a progress payment schedule, a termination clause, a seventeen-item checklist, and notice of a five clear business day cooling-off period.
One more thing has to be handed over at 5,000 dollars and up, and it is the most useful page in the pile: a copy of the Consumer Building Guide. If you were not given one, you were not given a compliant contract.
Answers come from pros and are reviewed by LokalMatch before they’re published. They’re general information — for regulated or safety-critical work, have a licensed professional assess your situation.
Sources
Where the facts on this page come from.
Guide to providing home building contracts — NSW Government (accessed 24 September 2026)