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Good Faith in QLD Construction Contracts: The Unwritten Rule You Can't Ignore
Discover the unwritten rule of good faith in Queensland construction contracts. Learn how the implied duty of honesty, cooperation, and reasonableness impacts builders and homeowners, and how a lack of it leads to disputes with the QBCC and QCAT.

John Merlo
Jan 2313 min read


Freedom of Contract in QLD Construction: The Unwritten Terms Set by Law
In Queensland's building industry, the contract you sign is only part of the story. A complex web of legislation, including the QBCC Act and BIF Act, inserts non-negotiable terms into every agreement, overriding any conflicting clauses. Learn about the statutory limitations on freedom of contract and why legal advice is essential to understand your true rights and obligations.

John Merlo
Jan 2015 min read


Fit for Purpose in QLD Construction: Your Essential 2026 Guide to Implied Warranties
Discover the power of the 'fit for purpose' implied warranty in Queensland construction. This essential 2026 guide explains your legal rights under the QBCC Act and Australian Consumer Law, how to identify a breach, and the steps to take through the QBCC and QCAT to resolve disputes over defective building work.

John Merlo
Jan 1918 min read


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


The Cost Shield - How a Request for Particulars Stops Vague Construction Claims from Draining Your Finances
Discover how a simple legal document, the Request for Particulars, can act as a powerful "cost shield" in Queensland construction disputes. This article explains how to force clarity from plaintiffs, control your legal spend, and build a stronger defence against vague and costly allegations.

John Merlo
Jan 615 min read


The Post-BPIC Playbook: Fortifying Your Subcontractor Agreements Against New Liabilities
The permanent abolition of Queensland's Best Practice Industry Conditions (BPIC) policy has fundamentally shifted risk onto head contractors. This guide details the critical amendments you must make to your subcontractor agreements to protect your business from new liabilities, particularly those related to non-conforming products and subcontractor defaults. Learn how to build a contractual fortress in a post-BPIC world.

John Merlo
Jan 513 min read
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