Service
Early Case Assessment
An Early Case Assessment is a simple systematic way to investigate the foundations of a case to determine the best pathway for our clients in a relatively inexpensive way. Some of the core components of an ECA are
- Evaluates the case
- Collects and collates all information and relevant documents
- Develops strategy
- Explores possible solutions that benefit all parties.
Despite this sounding relatively easy, the process of gathering all the information and arguments can be very time-consuming.
Even though Perth Building Shelter looks at contracts and legislation, we do not provide legal advice and all information is of a general nature.
An early case assessment is often used by lawyers to estimate the cost (in terms of time and money) of prosecuting or defending a case. Often this is the measure of a lawyer taking on the case. In contrast, we use early case assessments differently and to save you money and time.
Early Case Assessment
From $550 inc GST
Why do an ECA?
Oftentimes, people find themselves in expensive litigation without realising there are other options available, or which can be exhausted first before committing to a costly lawyer fees.
We partner with you to assist you pulling in all the facts and looking at resolving the issue in the most beneficial way for you. In addition to the argument, there are other factors to consider.
During conflict, people often make decisions based on their emotions rather than the facts. To get a clear direction, the ECA compiles the facts.
Other contributing factors may include:
- Mis-communication of the problem
- Unrealistic expectations by both parties
- Emotional distress
- Lack of understanding on the problem by both parties
- Financial stress
- Compounding issues over the course of the build
Perth Building Shelter prioritises you, no matter the direction you choose. As a company, we always act in the best interest in our clients. We are dedicated to ensuring you feel safe and that you know you always have somewhere to come back to.
Three Pathways Based on ECA?
In our experience building disputes will lead to one of these pathways once conflict occurs. Knowing which is right for you can save a lot of time and money:
1. Lodging a complaint with Building and Energy
This is the cheapest option and the lawful process outlined under the provisions of your building contract.
Advantages is that it is the cheapest option for the disadvantages is that it is a lengthy process. Most cases that get lodged with Building and Energy end up being referred to SAT (State Administration Tribunal) This can sometimes take 12-18 months for your issue to be determined.
2. Perth Building Shelter Partners with you to resolve the dispute
Perth building Shelter partners with you every step of the way so that you are always in control of the situations and decision.
Disadvantages is we are not legal and cannot give legal advice therefore if the builder takes a rigid position that requires an aggressive approach it makes it more challenging. As such, the ECA is crucial because it provides the entire picture and determines what action to take. We save you money on costly litigation and gain the win-win situation.
3. Litigation
Litigation is a way of resolving disputes that uses courts and solicitors. A lawyer will represent your interests and fight for an outcome that is most favourable for you. This is regardless of whether you are
- The plaintiff – you have bought the claim
- The defendant – you are defending the claim
While there may be consumer laws that can be argued, the major disadvantage is that there are rarely any winners due to the cost and complexities associated with litigation.
Our Assessment Process
Please find below a simplified breakdown of our ECA process.
Interview
Information Collection & Assessing
Meeting Review
Chosen Pathway
1
Interview
Interviews are an opportunity to be heard. It allows you the client to talk freely with someone and share your perspective on the issues.
It allows a deeper insight to the problem and provides an opportunity for us to ask a series of questions to determine action steps that make sense in complex conflict.
It also assists in key points that when directly accompanied by written evidence can strengthen a case or argument that may have been overlooked.
2
Information Collection and Assessing
Collection of information is crucial in the case assessment. This is where you the client provide all relevant documentation to assist in determining the right pathway.
Information collected but not limited to:
- Timeline information
- Contract
- Email correspondence
- Text messages
- Documented notes
- Clarifying phone calls
- Impact statement
A formatted case file is created once all information has been gathered by the assessor.
3
Meeting Review
Based on all the information collected the meeting review is a time where the assessor sits down with you and assists you at looking at all the options and pathways so that you can make an educated decision for what is right for you.
Formal or informal claims or grievances are frequently filed because of unresolved conflict, and there are other factors to consider which we may have discovered during the assessment
By using our unique and customized ECA , we analyse all aspects and help put you back into a position of power. You will be equipped with the knowledge and attitude necessary to determine the pathway that is most suitable for you. It will save you money, time, and stress. When there is a clear strategy, and everything makes sense, 95% of cases can be resolved amicably with your builder.
4
Chosen Pathway
Now you have the facts in an easy-to-understand format you can make your choice. Here at Perth Building Shelter we value people over money therefore knowing we can provide such a valuable service which reduces stress, overwhelm, and helps you understand your rights.
For more information book in a complimentary call with us.
Let’s Talk
Want to discuss your Build with Us?
Book a free 20 min consultation now.