What is the Disputes Tribunal and can I use it for a builder dispute?
Short answer
The Disputes Tribunal is a low-cost civil court for money claims up to $60,000 (raised from $60k on 24 January 2026). It's designed for ordinary people — no lawyers allowed, simple paperwork, a referee hears both sides in about 40 minutes, decision usually issued within a week. It's a very practical option for homeowner-builder disputes about quality, variations, or unpaid refunds.
Key facts
- Cap: $60,000 since 24 January 2026 (previously $60,000)
- No lawyers allowed — both sides represent themselves
- Filing fee currently $59-234 depending on claim size
- Hearings usually within 8-12 weeks of filing
- Decisions are binding and enforceable as court judgments
When to use it
Money disputes under $60k. Examples: builder won't refund deposit; deduct $X from final claim for defects; recover cost of completing work the builder abandoned.
Not for: orders that the builder finish a job (the Tribunal can't compel work, only award money). For non-money disputes use Building Disputes Tribunal adjudication.
How to file
Online at disputestribunal.govt.nz. Set out the parties, the amount, and the facts. Attach the key evidence (contract, payment records, photos of defects, communications).
Less is more. The referee reads everything but appreciates a clear summary. A page or two for the timeline plus exhibits beats a wall of unsorted attachments.
What to expect at hearing
About 40 minutes total. The referee asks both sides for the short version, asks clarifying questions, sometimes proposes a settlement, and either gives a decision then or issues one in writing within a week.
Most referees have building or trade backgrounds for construction claims. They know when a quote is reasonable and when a defect is real.
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Related questions
Sources: Disputes Tribunal — disputestribunal.govt.nz; Disputes Tribunal Act 1988 (and 2024 amendment lifting cap). General information for NZ homeowners, not legal advice — building rules change and vary by council, so confirm critical details on the official source before acting. Last updated 2026-05.