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Cost of a Scott Schedule?

July 19, 2024
By Awesim

The cost of hiring a building consultant to prepare and submit a Scott Schedule can vary widely depending on several factors, including the complexity of the dispute, the level of detail required, the consultant\’s experience and reputation, and the geographical location. Here are some key factors that influence the cost:

Factors Influencing the Cost

Complexity of the Dispute:
- Simple Disputes: For straightforward issues with few disputed items, the cost will be lower.
- Complex Disputes: More complex cases with multiple issues, extensive evidence, and technical details will incur higher costs.
Level of Detail Required:
- Basic Schedule: A simple Scott Schedule with minimal analysis and documentation might cost less.
- Detailed Analysis: A comprehensive Scott Schedule with detailed descriptions, cost estimates, expert analysis, and supporting evidence will be more expensive.
Consultant’s Experience and Reputation:
- Junior Consultants: Less experienced consultants or those with lower profiles might charge less.
- Senior Consultants: Highly experienced and reputable consultants will charge premium rates for their services.
Geographical Location:
- Local Market Rates: Costs can vary significantly depending on the location, with urban areas and regions with high living costs generally being more expensive.
- Travel Costs: If the consultant needs to travel to the site or attend court hearings, travel expenses will be added to the overall cost.
Time and Effort Involved:
- Hourly Rates: Many consultants charge on an hourly basis, so the total cost will depend on the number of hours required to complete the work.
- Fixed Fees: Some consultants might offer fixed fees for specific services, providing more predictable costs.

Typical Cost Estimates

Hourly Rates:
- Junior Consultants: $100 – $200 per hour
- Senior Consultants: $300 – $500+ per hour
Fixed Fee Estimates:
- Simple Scott Schedule: $1,000 – $3,000
- Detailed Scott Schedule: $3,000 – $10,000 or more

Example Breakdown of Costs

Initial Consultation and Site Visit:
- 2-4 hours at $500/hour: $1,100 – $2,000
Inspection and Documentation:
- 8-16 hours at $500/hour: $4,000 – $8,000
Preparation of Scott Schedule:
- 10-20 hours at $500/hour: $5,000 – $10,000
Review and Submission:
- 4-8 hours at $300/hour: $1,200 – $2,400
Expert Testimony (if required):
- 4-8 hours at $500/hour: $2,000 – $4,000

Total Estimated Cost: $13,000 – $20,000

Additional Considerations for a Scott Schedule

Retainer Fees: Some consultants might require a retainer fee upfront, which is then applied to the final cost.
Disbursements: Additional costs for travel, accommodation, and other expenses incurred during the preparation and submission process.
Hourly vs. Fixed Fee: Depending on the agreement, the final cost might be based on an hourly rate or a pre-agreed fixed fee for the entire service.

Conclusion

The cost of hiring a building consultant to prepare and submit a Scott Schedule can vary widely based on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the level of detail required, the consultant’s experience, and the geographical location. While costs can range from a few thousand dollars for simpler cases to tens of thousands for more complex disputes, the investment is often justified by the detailed, professional, and credible documentation and analysis provided by the consultant. Engaging a building consultant ensures that the Scott Schedule is comprehensive, accurate, and persuasive, significantly improving the chances of a favorable outcome in court or tribunal proceedings.

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Awesim

Glen Sim is a highly experienced Building Consultant, Licensed Builder, Construction Consultant, and Expert Witness with more than 35 years of practical experience within the Australian building and construction industry. As the Founder and Director of Awesim Building Consultants, Glen has established a strong reputation throughout Sydney and regional New South Wales for providing independent, evidence-based building consultancy services and expert reporting for complex building and construction disputes.Beginning his career as an apprentice carpenter with TAFE NSW in 1990, Glen completed his apprenticeship in 1993 before progressing into senior construction and management roles across residential, commercial, and remedial building sectors. His extensive industry background provides him with genuine hands-on construction knowledge — something that distinguishes him from many consultants who have limited site-based experience.Glen became a Licensed Builder in Victoria in 2004 before returning to New South Wales in 2011, where he continues to operate under NSW Builder Licence No. 232673C. Over the course of his career, he has worked across all stages of the construction process, including carpentry, supervision, project management, contract administration, construction scheduling, defect rectification, quality control, and dispute resolution.Today, Glen is widely recognised for his expertise in:Expert Witness Reports Scott Schedules NCAT Building Disputes Construction Defect Investigations Building Defect Reports Quantum Meruit Assessments Construction Programming & Delay Analysis Client-Side Project Management Contract & Scope of Works AssessmentsGlen regularly assists homeowners, builders, developers, solicitors, strata managers, insurers, and commercial clients by providing technically detailed and independent reporting for litigation and dispute resolution matters. His reports are prepared with a strong understanding of the requirements of the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT), court procedures, the Expert Witness Code of Conduct, the National Construction Code (NCC), Australian Standards, and accepted building industry practices. Over 15+ years experience providing litigation support with expert witness reports and Scott schedules. What clients value most about Glen is his practical approach, integrity, attention to detail, and ability to clearly explain complex construction issues in a manner that is easy to understand. His combination of trade-based experience, construction management knowledge, and investigative expertise allows him to identify issues that are often overlooked by less experienced consultants.Over the years, Glen has developed a reputation for producing thorough, methodical, and evidence-supported reports that clients and legal representatives can rely upon during negotiations, mediations, tribunal proceedings, and litigation matters. His commitment to accuracy, professionalism, and impartiality has made Awesim Building Consultants a trusted name in the building consultancy industry across NSW.Glen is also known for his strong commitment to client service, ensuring every matter is approached with professionalism, transparency, and genuine care for achieving practical outcomes. His experience across both metropolitan Sydney and regional New South Wales provides him with a broad understanding of differing construction methods, site conditions, workmanship standards, and project delivery challenges throughout the state.Outside of the construction industry, Glen values family life and regional Australia. He has been happily married to internationally recognised author Audra Starkey since March 2025. Together, they share a passion for supporting rural communities and building trusted professional relationships grounded in honesty and respect.With more than three decades of industry experience, Glen Sim continues to provide trusted building consultancy and expert witness services backed by real construction knowledge, independent assessment, and a commitment to helping clients navigate complex building matters with confidence.