Barrister & Solicitor · Auckland CBD
Helping resolve leaky building, construction and body corporate disputes
We are an Auckland litigation practice focused on building disputes. Since 2005 we have recovered repair costs for homeowners and bodies corporate, and defended builders, developers and designers when claims are made against them.
- Practising since 1987
- Building disputes since the mid-1990s
What we do
Defective & Leaky Buildings
Claims for homeowners and bodies corporate since 2005, and defence of builders, developers, designers and their directors.
Construction Disputes
Payment claims, adjudication and building contract disputes under the Construction Contracts Act, for owners and contractors.
Body Corporate & Unit Titles
Levies, repairs, rules and governance disputes under the Unit Titles Act 2010, for bodies corporate, committees and owners.
Commercial Insurance
Commercial insurance disputes arising from construction: public liability and professional indemnity coverage, and declined claims.
Commercial Litigation
Contract disputes, misleading conduct claims under the Fair Trading Act, and claims against agents and professionals.
Why clients come to us
- Both sides of the dispute. We act for owners bringing claims and for the builders, developers, architects and tradespeople defending them, so we know how the other side will run its case.
- Direct access to a senior litigator. Michael was admitted in 1987 and has handled building defect cases since 1996. Your matter is handled by senior litigators, not juniors.
- Resolution before court where possible. Most building disputes settle. We have represented clients at numerous mediations and settlement conferences, and in the courts and the Weathertight Homes Tribunal when they don't.
“The team at Michael Thornton has real strength of character and resolve which my whole family heavily relied upon during our leaky building claim. They were able to say just the right things at just the right time, and at the very end they came through for us when it mattered the most.”
Plain-English guides
- The Construction Contracts Act explained: payment claims, payment schedules and adjudication.
- The Unit Titles Act explained: bodies corporate, levies, repairs and disputes.
Talk to Michael about your situation
Bring any reports, contracts or correspondence you have, and we will explain your options and provide initial recommendations.
We aim to reply within 24 hours. Every enquiry is held in strict confidence.