You guys seem to get along with your SS ok, why not give him a call first to check up when he expects all the requirements listed for 'frame' stage to be completed. Probably worth trawling through the contract you signed to see if it specifies in different language exactly what the builder describes as frame stage rather than relying on what the builder has referenced.įor example, ours which is based on an HIA contract specifies (from memory) that doors must be fitted for lockup, but they do not have to be the final doors they can be temporary ones fitted by the builder. If we go by the book, then really we shouldn't be paying the invoice until our external doors are fixed, which according to our SS may be next week. and at what point did you pay your 'lock up' invoice. Please let me know if you require dated photos to show the external doors not fixed.' You have previously referred me to our Plain English New Homes Building Contract, which has referred me to section 40(1) of the Domestic Building Contracts Act 1995. 'Please note that as of 11:00am today the external doors were not fixed.

I have quoted the above back to the finance guy, along with something like this. Those doors or windows are only temporary)

'lock-up stage' means the stage when a home'sĮxternal wall cladding and roof covering isįixed, the flooring is laid and external doors still thinking about exactly what to say.Īccording to section 40(1) of the Domestic Building Contracts Act 1995, the definition for 'lock up' reads: I've been doing a little research and have drafted up an email back to our builder, which I may or may not send. received 'lock up' invoice, due for payment within 14 days. I was referred back to the contract for the definition of the 'frame stage', and was 'bullied' I guess into paying. Last time I disputed our frame invoice with the finance guy (long story ~ our front door was installed off centre, we wanted to delay payment until it was corrected, but the builder threatended with interest charges if the account wasn't paid).

We have just today recieved our 'lock up' invoice from our builder.

Super sume pro locks up in stage one