Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does an Expert Witness Report cost?
The cost of an Expert Witness Report varies depending on the number and complexity of issues involved in your claim. As a guide:
– Site Investigation: $1,100.00 for the first hour, then $550.00 per hour thereafter
– Expert Witness Reporting: $1,100.00 per issue
– Scott Schedule Reporting: $550.00 per issue
– Expert Witness Conclave: $3,850.00 per day or part of
– Court or NCAT Hearing Attendance: $3,850.00 per day or part of
Document and report review, as well as travel expenses, may also apply. All rates include GST and are indicative only.
What is the minimum cost of a small claim?
For a small claim involving one hour of site investigation, one Expert Witness Report, and one Scott Schedule, the minimum cost is approximately $2,750.00 (inclusive of GST).
What is the typical price range for an Expert Witness Report?
Most Expert Witness Reports fall within the $5,000 – $15,000 range, depending on the scale and complexity of the matter. For larger claims (such as multi-unit or strata complex disputes), total reporting costs can exceed $600,000 in major cases worth $10 million or more.
How long does it take to receive the report?
On most occasions, an Expert Witness Report takes around 3–4 weeks from the date of the site investigation to prepare and submit. However, complex matters may take several months to compile sufficient supporting evidence.
When are site investigations conducted?
All site investigations are generally carried out between 7:00am and 9:00am on weekdays, unless prior arrangements have been made.
Do you require payment upfront?
Yes. It is company policy that all payments are made prior to both the Site Investigation and the commencement of the Expert Witness Report. This ensures the independence and objectivity of our opinions, keeping them neutral and unaffected by payment delays or disputes.
Where do you provide Expert Witness services?
We service all of New South Wales, including Sydney, regional cities, and country towns. Our consultants frequently travel to:
– Central Coast (Gosford region)
– Hunter Valley (Muswellbrook, Singleton, Scone, Newcastle)
– Mid North Coast (Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie)
– New England (Tamworth, Armidale, Gunnedah)
– Northern Rivers (Lismore, Ballina, Tweed Heads)
– Central West (Bathurst, Orange, Dubbo)
– South Coast (Wollongong, Nowra, Batemans Bay)
– Riverina and Murray Regions (Wagga Wagga, Albury, Yass, Young, Tumut, etc.)
We’ve even attended building disputes in Broken Hill, taking advantage of our proximity to Bankstown Airport for regional flights.
Why choose Awesim Pty Ltd for your Expert Witness Report?
With over 35 years in the Building & Construction Industry and 30+ years as an incorporated company, we bring extensive experience and credibility. Our Director, Glen Sim, personally manages most reporting requirements. He’s a qualified builder and accredited consultant with a trade background in Carpentry/Joinery and a Diploma in Construction Management. We are fully insured with Professional Indemnity cover and recognised by NCAT and the courts for compliance with the Expert Witness Code of Conduct.
What is a Scott Schedule and why is it needed?
A Scott Schedule is a structured report outlining the specific issues in dispute — for example, defects, costs of rectification, or variations. It’s often required by NCAT or the Court to help clearly compare both parties’ expert opinions side by side.
What is included in the “Bundle of Documents”?
The Bundle of Documents is the complete evidence pack submitted to NCAT or the Court. It includes:
– The Expert Witness Report and Scott Schedule
– Building Contract and Plans
– Affidavit and Statement of Claim
– Chronology of Events
– Supporting evidence and correspondence
These documents must be tabulated, paginated, indexed, and provided in triplicate – one copy each for the Court/NCAT, the opposing party, and yourself. A well-prepared bundle significantly strengthens your case by helping the Judge or NCAT Member clearly understand the dispute.
What qualifications do your Expert Witnesses hold?
Our Expert Witnesses come from trade and management backgrounds in the Building & Construction industry. The company director, Glen Sim, is a qualified Carpenter/Joiner with a Diploma in Construction Management, a NSW Builder’s Licence, and accreditation as a Building Consultant.
Are your Expert Witness Reports accepted by NCAT and the Courts?
Yes. All of our Expert Witness Reports strictly adhere to the Code of Conduct for Expert Witnesses and are fully recognised by NCAT and the NSW Court system. We frequently appear in both settings to provide evidence and clarification on our findings.
Can you assist with both residential and commercial building disputes?
Yes. We handle both residential and commercial building disputes across New South Wales. Whether it’s a home renovation defect, a strata dispute, or a commercial construction disagreement, we tailor the report to suit the nature and scale of the claim.
Do you work for both homeowners and builders?
Yes. We remain fully independent and are engaged by both homeowners and builders (as well as legal representatives or insurers). Our findings are impartial and evidence-based, ensuring that all reports meet court standards of neutrality and professionalism.
What happens after the Expert Witness Report is completed?
After your report is submitted, we can assist in conferencing with the opposing expert (Expert Conclave), attending Court or NCAT hearings, and providing clarifications or supplementary reports if required. We’re also experienced in helping clients prepare their Bundle of Documents for submission.
Can you provide an obligation-free quotation before starting?
Yes. We offer an obligation-free quotation for your building dispute or Expert Witness Report. This helps you understand the likely scope, timeline, and costs involved before proceeding.
Do you charge for travel outside Sydney?
Yes, travel expenses may apply for site inspections outside Sydney or the metropolitan area. However, our team regularly travels across NSW, and we always provide an upfront estimate of any travel-related costs in your quotation.
What type of evidence do you need before starting a report?
Typically, we’ll ask for copies of your building contract, plans, correspondence, defect lists, and any photographic or inspection evidence you already have. This helps us assess the matter in detail and ensure that our site visit and reporting are comprehensive.
Can I use your report for insurance or warranty claims?
Yes. Many clients use our Expert Witness Reports for Home Building Compensation Fund (HBCF) claims, insurance disputes, or warranty issues. Our reports are designed to be compliant and admissible for these types of proceedings.
How do I get started with booking a Site Investigation?
You can contact us via phone, email, or the online form for an obligation-free quote. Once you accept the quote and payment is confirmed, we’ll schedule a site investigation (typically between 7:00am and 7:00pm on weekdays). From there, we’ll guide you through the process step by step.