What to do if your builder won't finish the work (NZ)
The work has stalled, the builder has stopped turning up, and you're left with an unfinished — possibly unsafe or un-weathertight — home. It's stressful, but you have rights and a clear path forward. Here's how to take back control, step by step.
In short
Put your concerns in writing and give the builder a clear, reasonable deadline to return and finish. If they don't, you can usually engage another tradesperson to complete the work and seek to recover the extra cost — through the Disputes Tribunal (claims up to $60,000) if it can't be resolved. Document everything as you go.
Step by step
- 1
Check your contract and payments
Work out exactly what you've paid versus what's been done, and whether you have a fixed-price contract and a payment schedule. This is the foundation for everything that follows.
- 2
Put it in writing
Email or write to the builder, calmly stating the problem and a reasonable deadline to resume and complete the work. Keep copies of everything — verbal conversations are hard to rely on later.
- 3
Document the state of the work
Take dated photos and write a list of what's incomplete or defective. For a significant job, get an independent builder or building inspector to assess and put it in writing.
- 4
Know your warranties
The Building Act's implied warranties require work to be done with reasonable care and skill and completed within a reasonable time — even if your contract doesn't say so. These apply for up to 10 years.
- 5
Get someone else to finish it
If the builder doesn't return within a reasonable time, you may be able to engage another tradesperson and seek to recover the additional cost. Get legal advice first on larger jobs before you do this.
- 6
Escalate if needed
The Disputes Tribunal hears claims up to $60,000 (no lawyer needed); the District Court handles larger claims. For poor workmanship or conduct by a Licensed Building Practitioner, complain to the LBP Board.
Your rights at a glance
- Implied warranties: work must be done with reasonable care and completed in a reasonable time
- These warranties apply for up to 10 years, even if not written in your contract
- You may recover the extra cost of getting another tradesperson to finish
- Disputes Tribunal handles claims up to $60,000
Where to get help
Disputes Tribunal
VisitClaims up to $60,000 — quick, low-cost, no lawyer required
LBP Board
VisitComplaints about a Licensed Building Practitioner's work or conduct
Building Performance (MBIE)
VisitGuidance on resolving building problems and your consumer rights
Citizens Advice Bureau
VisitFree advice on your options and writing to the builder
Most of these situations involved a builder who already had warning signs in the public record — past court action, liquidations, or a director linked to failed companies. A 30-second check before you sign is far cheaper than any of the steps above.
Related questions
Sources: Building Performance (building.govt.nz) — implied warranties and resolving problems; Building Act 2004; Disputes Tribunal NZ. General information for NZ homeowners, not legal advice — every situation differs, so get professional advice for your circumstances. Last updated 2026-05.