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The QLD Compliance Shock: 5 QBCC Act Traps for Directors New to Queensland
For construction directors expanding into Queensland, the QBCC Act presents a minefield of unique compliance traps. This guide breaks down the five most critical areas—from personal liability and strict financial requirements to expansive disciplinary powers—that differ significantly from NSW and VIC, helping you avoid the common "compliance shock."

John Merlo
Jan 813 min read


Protecting Profit Through Strategic Legal Investment on Queensland Projects
For Queensland developers, viewing legal counsel as a strategic risk management tool rather than a cost is key to protecting profitability. This guide outlines how to address the five most significant construction risks—from ambiguous contracts and BIF Act claims to QBCC directives and subcontractor insolvency—through proactive legal strategies.

John Merlo
Dec 29, 202516 min read


Using QBCC Warranties to Enforce High-End Quality Standards in QLD
Discover how Queensland developers can legally enforce high-end quality standards that go beyond simple code compliance. This guide explains how to use the QBCC's implied statutory warranty requiring appropriate and skilful work, strengthen your contracts, and navigate the QBCC dispute and QCAT appeal process to ensure the premium finish your project demands.

John Merlo
Dec 24, 202513 min read


The Developer's Gambit: Using QBCC Contract Non-Compliance to Trigger a JV Default
Learn how a JV partner's failure to use QBCC-compliant building contracts can be framed as a material breach of your development agreement, providing a powerful and legally defensible trigger to enforce default provisions, take control of a project, or terminate the partnership.

John Merlo
Nov 7, 202515 min read


A Developer's Legal Triage Plan for Defending a QBCC Construction Dispute
A notice from the QBCC demands a rapid, calculated response. This guide is your legal triage plan—a set of non-negotiable actions to take within the first 48 hours to assess the claim, mitigate exposure, and establish a strong defensive position.

John Merlo
Oct 18, 202512 min read


How Queensland Courts Calculate Loss of Opportunity Damages for Developers
Expert insight into how Queensland courts assess and quantify 'loss of opportunity' damages for property developers. Learn about the evidence required, the role of expert witnesses, and the strategic choice between QCAT and the Supreme Court for high-value construction disputes.

John Merlo
Oct 9, 202516 min read


The Developer's Defence Manual - How to Dismantle a Builder's Quantum Meruit Ambush in Queensland
A builder's post-project quantum meruit claim can be a significant financial threat. Learn the key strategies developers in Queensland can use to dismantle these ambushes, from leveraging watertight contracts and meticulous documentation to challenging the "reasonable value" of the work performed.

John Merlo
Oct 8, 202514 min read


The Definitive QBCC Guide for Queensland Homeowners
Planning a build or facing issues in Queensland? Our comprehensive guide to the QBCC explains its role, your rights, and how to navigate the system successfully.

John Merlo
Oct 1, 202513 min read


A Queensland Subcontractor's Defence Strategy for QBCC Direction to Rectify
A guide for Queensland subcontractors on how to challenge a QBCC Direction to Rectify. Learn to gather evidence and build a case that proves the head contractor's poor instructions or site mismanagement were the true cause of the defect, protecting your licence and finances.

John Merlo
Sep 29, 202515 min read


QBCC MFR Report Explained: A Builder’s Guide to Financial Requirements
Navigating the QBCC MFR report is a critical challenge for Queensland builders. This guide demystifies the Minimum Financial Requirements, explaining the key metrics like the Current Ratio and Net Tangible Assets (NTA) you must meet to protect your licence. Learn how to prepare a compliant report, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure the financial stability of your construction business. Get the clear answers you need to stay compliant and safeguard your livelihood.

John Merlo
Aug 7, 202512 min read
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