Bathroom renovation warranties and handover in NSW

Keep the different protections separate

A product warranty, a contractor's written workmanship warranty and statutory building warranties have different terms and purposes.

Record which business provides each warranty, what it covers and how to make a claim, then keep that information with the contract and paid invoices.

NSW's guidance describes statutory warranty periods of 6 years for major defects and 2 years for other defects for contracts signed from 1 February 2012.

Time limits and the classification of a defect need individual advice, particularly if the work is approaching the end of a warranty period.

Official guidance: NSW Government: resolving building disputes.

Ask for a bathroom handover folder

• The final signed scope, approved variations and product schedule.
• Invoices and the contractor's contact and licence details.
• Waterproofing system and installation records available for the job.
• Relevant trade certificates and approval records.
• Product warranties, cleaning instructions and spare product codes.
• A dated handover list and agreed dates for any remaining work.

Walk through the room with the contractor

Allow time to operate drawers, doors, taps, the shower, toilet and ventilation, and to ask how each item should be maintained.

Check that the delivered products match the agreed schedule and photograph the completed room for your own records.

Ask the contractor to explain any commissioning or checks completed before handover rather than relying on appearance alone.

Record outstanding items clearly with photos, locations and an agreed follow-up date.

If work is unfinished or a concern remains

Set out the concern in writing, attach relevant photographs and refer to the agreed scope or previous correspondence.

Request a written response and a practical completion or inspection plan, and keep copies of all communication.

Building Commission NSW provides a dispute-resolution pathway when direct discussions haven't resolved a building issue.

Get legal advice promptly about deadlines, payment disputes, termination or a contractor that has stopped trading.

For an immediate safety concern, keep people away from the affected area and contact the appropriate licensed trade or emergency service.

Official guidance: NSW Government: resolving building disputes.