Your renovation contractor doesn't disappear the moment you move in — or at least, they shouldn't. The Defects Liability Period (DLP) is a contractual warranty period during which the contractor is responsible for fixing defects that arise from their workmanship or materials. Understanding how it works means you can actually use it.
What the DLP is and what it covers
The DLP is typically 12 months from handover, though some contracts state 6 months. It covers defects that arise from:
- Poor workmanship — tiles that pop, paint that peels, carpentry that warps, hinges that fail within normal use
- Defective materials — materials that fail prematurely due to manufacturing defects, not damage caused by you
- Works that didn't meet specification — something built differently from what was agreed in the contract
It does not cover:
- Damage caused by your use — a drawer rail broken by overloading it, tiles cracked by dropping something heavy
- Normal wear and fair use — paint that dulls over time, fixtures that age naturally
- Changes you made after handover — any works done by other parties after the contractor handed over
The most important thing: document defects in writing
The DLP only works if you use it. That means:
Report defects in writing as soon as you find them. A WhatsApp to your contractor: "Hi, noticed [description] in [location]. Photo attached. Can you advise when this can be rectified under the defects liability period?" This creates a dated record.
Don't assume that pointing something out verbally is sufficient. If there's ever a dispute about what was reported and when, your written record is your evidence.
Don't wait until month 11 to report a defect you noticed in month two. Contractors may argue that delayed reporting suggests it's not their defect, or that your own works caused it.
Common defects that appear in the first year
Tile hollowness and popping — often appears in the first few months as the flat settles and temperature cycles cause expansion and contraction. Document immediately and report. This is a workmanship defect.
Carpentry doors that swing open or hinge misalignment — often appears as the flat adjusts to humidity. Can be adjusted (hinge adjustment) or may indicate improper installation. Report promptly.
Grout cracking — grout that cracks within months of installation typically indicates improper curing, mixing, or substrate movement. Covered under DLP.
Paint peeling in wet areas — indicates either inadequate surface preparation or wrong paint specification for the area. Covered.
Silicon sealant moulding rapidly — the silicone around your shower screen, vanity, and bathroom fittings will attract mould. This isn't a defect if the silicone was properly applied; it's a maintenance item. However, if silicone was applied to a wet surface or poorly tooled, it peels prematurely. That's a workmanship issue.
What to do if the contractor disputes a defect claim
State the defect clearly, reference the DLP clause in your contract, and ask for a site visit to assess. Most disputes about defect liability can be resolved with a physical assessment by the contractor.
If the contractor refuses to assess or denies liability for something you believe is clearly a workmanship issue, escalate to CASE mediation. CASE mediators deal with renovation defect disputes regularly and the process is relatively fast (typically resolved within weeks of filing).
Keep your DLP end date visible
Mark the end of your DLP in your calendar — 12 months from your handover date. As you approach month 10–11, do a deliberate walkthrough of your flat to identify anything that's appeared over the year. This "DLP sweep" ensures you don't miss the window for legitimate claims.
The bottom line
The DLP is a real protection with real value — but it requires you to use it actively. Report defects promptly, in writing, with photos. Keep records of all contractor responses. The homeowners who get their defects fixed properly are the ones who treat the DLP as a formal business process rather than a polite favour they're asking for.
