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.

How much does an Expert Witness Report cost?

We offer a free initial consultation. The cost varies depending on the number and complexity of issues involved. As a guide: Site Investigation is $1,100 for the first hour, then $550 per hour thereafter; Expert Witness Reporting is $1,100 per issue; Scott Schedule Reporting is $550 per issue; Expert Witness Conclave is $3,850 per day or part thereof; Court or NCAT Hearing Attendance is $3,850 per day or part thereof. Document/report review and 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 2–4 weeks from the date of the site investigation to prepare and submit. 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.

Where do you provide Expert Witness services?

We service all of New South Wales, including Sydney, regional cities, and country towns, including the Central Coast, Hunter Valley, Mid North Coast, New England, Northern Rivers, Central West, South Coast, and Riverina/Murray regions, as well as Broken Hill and other remote locations.

Why choose Awesim Pty Ltd for your Expert Witness Report?

With more than 35 years in the building and construction industry and the business established in 1996, Awesim brings extensive experience and credibility. Director Glen Sim is a qualified builder and accredited consultant with a trade background in Carpentry/Joinery and a Diploma in Construction Management. Awesim is 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, and supporting evidence and correspondence, tabulated, paginated, indexed, and provided in triplicate.

What qualifications do your Expert Witnesses hold?

Our Expert Witnesses come from trade and management backgrounds in the Building & Construction industry. 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.

Can you assist with both residential and commercial building disputes?

Yes. We handle both residential and commercial building disputes across New South Wales, tailoring 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.

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, providing clarifications or supplementary reports, and preparing your Bundle of Documents for submission.

Do you charge for travel outside Sydney?

Yes, travel expenses may apply for site inspections outside Sydney or the metropolitan area. 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.

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.

Who is Awesim and how long have you been operating?

Awesim Pty Ltd is a privately owned Australian building consultancy, established in 1996. It was founded by Glen Sim, who brings over 35 years of experience across the building and construction industries and more than 15 years providing litigation support to homeowners, builders, and lawyers.

We provide independent building consultancy and litigation support, specialising in expert witness reports and Scott Schedules for building disputes before NCAT and the NSW courts.

What kinds of building matters do you specialise in?

We focus on building disputes and defects, including waterproofing failures, structural defects, incomplete and defective building works, and construction litigation, covering expert witness reports, Scott Schedules, and quantum meruit assessments.

What areas do you cover?

We provide services throughout New South Wales, including regional and remote locations. Our offices are located in Sydney CBD, Tamworth and Tweed Heads, and we travel across New South Wales for inspections and investigations.

Who do you work with?

We assist homeowners, solicitors and legal representatives, builders and contractors, developers, property owners, owners corporations, and parties involved in insurance-related building matters.

What services do you offer?

Our services include expert witness reports, Scott Schedules, and quantum meruit reports for litigation support, alongside client-side project management, contracts administration, and construction scheduling.

Why should I choose Awesim over another building consultant?

We provide independent, objective reporting backed by more than 35 years of practical building and construction experience, coupled with over 15 years of litigation support. Our reports are tribunal-ready, supported by detailed photographic and compliance evidence, and grounded in strong knowledge of the National Construction Code and Australian Standards.

What building problems can you help me with?

We help with building defects, disputes over incomplete or defective work, waterproofing and structural issues, and disagreements that require independent expert evidence to resolve — particularly matters heading to or already before NCAT.

What outcome can I expect from working with you?

You can expect a clear understanding of your position, reliable independent expert evidence prepared for NCAT or court, and professional support aimed at resolving your dispute and protecting your interests.

How much does an Expert Witness Report cost for an NCAT building dispute in NSW?

An NCAT Expert Witness Report in NSW typically costs between $5,000 and $15,000, with a small single-issue claim starting at a minimum of about $2,750 incl. GST. Awesim publishes fixed, itemised rates: site investigation is $1,100 for the first hour then $550/hour, Expert Witness reporting is $1,100 per issue, and a Scott Schedule is $550 per issue. Conclave or NCAT/court hearing attendance is $3,850 per day. Large strata or multi-unit matters can exceed $600,000 on claims worth $10 million or more. All rates include GST and are confirmed in an obligation-free written quote before any work begins. Reports are usually delivered within 2–4 weeks of the site inspection.

Do I need an Expert Witness Report for NCAT, or is a building inspection enough?

If your building dispute is going to NCAT or court, you need a formal Expert Witness Report — a standard pre-purchase building inspection is not accepted by the Tribunal. An Expert Witness Report is prepared under the Expert Witness Code of Conduct, assesses each defect against the National Construction Code, Australian Standards and the Home Building Act, and states cause, responsibility, rectification method and cost for every issue. Awesim prepares these reports, with an accompanying Scott Schedule where multiple defects are involved, for homeowners, builders and solicitors across NSW.

How much does a forensic waterproofing investigation cost for an NCAT dispute in NSW?

A forensic waterproofing investigation is priced the same way as Awesim's other expert witness work: site investigation is $1,100 for the first hour and $550 per hour thereafter, with additional reporting cost thereafter. Waterproofing matters often involve more diagnostic time, using thermal imaging, moisture meters, dye testing and level checks for falls. Glen Sim holds a Master Builders Association qualification in Waterproofing Compliance & Inspection, assessing each defect against AS 3740 or AS 4654.2 depending on the work. All rates are GST-inclusive and confirmed in an upfront written quote.

My bathroom or balcony is leaking — how do I know if it's actually a waterproofing defect?

Not every leak is caused by a failed membrane. A wet skirting board, water-stained ceiling or damp wall can also be caused by a leaking pipe, blocked drainage, rising damp, poor external ground levels or water tracking from an unrelated part of the building — a forensic investigation is needed to tell the difference before any claim is made. Awesim uses thermal imaging cameras, pin and pinless moisture meters, digital levels and controlled dye testing to trace the actual water pathway rather than assuming the nearest visible symptom is the cause.

Building Consultant

How Building Consultants Help Sydney Property Owners Make Informed Decisions

August 5, 2026By Awesim

Building work can involve significant planning, technical considerations and decisions that are not always easy for property owners to make on their own. Whether you are preparing for a renovation, dealing with a building defect or trying to understand an issue with an existing property, professional advice can provide greater clarity before you decide what to do next.

Building Consultant Services Sydney can help property owners better understand building conditions, construction concerns and potential issues affecting a property. A building consultant can assess specific concerns, review relevant information and provide practical advice based on the circumstances of the building.

For homeowners, investors and developers, this type of professional input can be useful at different stages of a property project. It can help turn complex building information into something easier to understand and provide a clearer basis for planning and decision-making.

What Is a Building Consultant?

A building consultant is a professional who provides advice and assessment relating to buildings, construction and property conditions. Their involvement can vary depending on the requirements of the client and the nature of the building concern.

A consultant may be engaged to assess building defects, investigate concerns with construction work, review the condition of particular building elements or provide an independent assessment of an issue.

The purpose is not simply to identify visible problems. A building consultant considers the circumstances surrounding an issue and helps establish a clearer understanding of what has been observed and what may need further attention.

This can be particularly useful when a property problem is difficult to understand without technical knowledge. Instead of relying on assumptions, property owners can obtain professional observations and recommendations relevant to their situation.

When Building Consultation Services May Be Useful

There are many situations where professional building consultation services can provide useful guidance. The right time to seek advice depends on the property, the type of work involved and the nature of the concern.

For example, a homeowner planning a renovation may notice cracking around windows or doors before work begins. Rather than assuming the issue is only cosmetic, a building consultant can assess the visible concern and consider whether further investigation may be appropriate.

A property owner dealing with water staining, damp areas or signs of water entry may also benefit from professional assessment. Identifying where the problem is occurring and understanding the building elements involved can help provide a clearer direction for addressing the concern.

Professional consultation can also be valuable when purchasing or managing a property and a building-related concern requires closer attention. Similarly, developers and property owners coordinating builders, designers and other specialists may seek independent building advice when they need a clearer understanding of a particular construction matter.

Building consultants may be engaged when:

A homeowner discovers cracking or other defects before a renovation
A property owner notices water damage, dampness or deterioration
Building work appears inconsistent with the agreed plans or expected workmanship
Defects need to be documented clearly
A construction concern requires an independent assessment
Several professionals are involved in a project and a building issue needs clarification
A property owner needs technical building information explained in practical terms

Seeking professional advice at the appropriate stage can help ensure that important building concerns are properly assessed before further decisions are made.

Assessing Problems Beyond What Is Visible

Some building problems are easy to notice, while understanding their underlying cause can be considerably more difficult.

A crack in a wall, for example, may be obvious, but its significance cannot necessarily be determined from appearance alone. Its location, pattern, size, surrounding materials and the circumstances in which it developed may all be relevant when assessing the concern.

Water-related problems can present a similar challenge. A stain on an internal ceiling may indicate that water has entered from elsewhere, while deterioration around a window may require consideration of the surrounding building elements. Simply treating the visible mark without understanding the wider issue may not address the underlying concern.

This is where building consulting services can provide practical value. Rather than focusing only on the most noticeable symptom, a consultant can assess the available evidence and consider the broader circumstances surrounding the issue.

The goal is to help the property owner understand what has been observed, what may require further attention and what information should be considered when deciding on the next step.

Building Consultants During Renovations

Renovating an existing property can involve more than selecting finishes and planning new spaces. Existing buildings may contain previous alterations, ageing materials, concealed defects or construction conditions that need to be understood before new work begins.

For example, a homeowner may discover cracking, uneven surfaces or signs of moisture while preparing for a renovation. If these concerns are identified before construction progresses, they can be assessed as part of the existing condition rather than being overlooked or confused with issues that arise later.

Professional building consultation can therefore be useful during the planning stage of renovation work. An assessment can help the property owner develop a clearer understanding of the existing building and identify matters that may need to be considered before work continues.

This can also make communication easier when several trades or professionals are involved. When everyone has access to clear information about an existing concern, it becomes easier to discuss what needs attention and how it relates to the wider project.

Supporting Better Building Decisions

Property owners are often required to make decisions about technical matters they may not deal with regularly. A building report may contain construction terminology, technical observations or references to defects that are difficult to interpret without relevant experience.

Building consultancy services can help make this information more accessible.

For instance, if a property owner receives conflicting opinions about a building defect, an independent assessment can help establish what was actually observed and which aspects may require further investigation. Similarly, if construction work appears different from what the owner expected, professional advice can help document the relevant concerns clearly.

The value of this advice is not simply in identifying an issue. It is in giving the property owner information that can be understood and used when discussing the matter with builders, designers or other professionals.

Good building consultation should therefore connect technical observations with the practical circumstances of the property. This gives clients a clearer basis for considering their available options.

The Importance of Clear Building Reports

Documentation becomes particularly important when a building concern needs to be communicated to someone else.

Consider a property owner who has noticed several defects but is unsure how to describe them to a builder. A detailed professional assessment can record the relevant locations, visible conditions and other observations in a structured way.

Photographs and written descriptions can provide useful supporting information and help distinguish one issue from another. This can be particularly valuable where several concerns exist across different areas of a property.

Clear documentation can also assist when information needs to be shared with architects, engineers, builders, designers or other specialists. Rather than relying on verbal descriptions alone, everyone can refer to the same documented observations.

The exact format and level of detail required will depend on the purpose of the assessment. However, reports should remain focused on the matters being investigated and communicate findings in a way that property owners can understand.

Building Services Consultants in Sydney

Sydney properties can vary considerably in age, design, construction and use. A consultant assessing a property therefore needs to consider the specific characteristics of the building rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach.

Building services consultants Sydney can provide professional input where a property owner needs assistance understanding particular building or construction matters. Awesim Building Consultants can provide this type of professional building consultation for clients seeking guidance on property and construction-related concerns.

This may involve examining an existing concern, assessing aspects of building work or helping a client understand information relating to a project.

The benefit of professional consultation is that the advice is connected to the circumstances being assessed. This makes it more useful than relying solely on general information that may not reflect the actual condition of a property.

Building Services Design Consultants and Project Planning

Building projects also require careful consideration of how different elements work together. Where design and building services are involved, appropriate professional input can help ensure that relevant requirements are considered as part of the broader project.

Building services design consultants may be involved where specialised design considerations form part of a building project. The exact professionals required will depend on the nature, scale and technical requirements of the work.

For property owners, understanding who is responsible for different aspects of a project can help avoid confusion. A building consultant can provide advice within their area of expertise while other specialists address matters that fall within their own professional responsibilities.

Working With Builders and Other Professionals

Building projects commonly involve several professionals, particularly where construction, design and technical services overlap.

A homeowner renovating a property, for example, may work with a builder, architect, designer and specialist trades. A developer may have an even wider group of professionals involved throughout the project.

A building consultant can provide an independent perspective when a specific building concern needs to be assessed or clarified. Their role can complement the work of other professionals rather than replace it.

Clear communication becomes particularly important when responsibilities are shared across different professionals. If a concern arises during construction, having the issue properly documented can help the relevant parties understand what has been observed and determine whether further specialist input is required.

This collaborative approach can help keep building-related discussions focused on the actual condition or concern rather than assumptions about what may have happened.

Why Independent Building Advice Can Be Valuable

When there is uncertainty about a building issue, property owners may receive different opinions from different parties. This can make it difficult to determine what information should guide the next decision.

An independent assessment can provide another perspective based on the condition of the property and the specific matter being investigated.

This can be useful when discussing defects, construction concerns or questions about completed work. Rather than approaching the issue solely from one party’s perspective, an independent consultant can assess the circumstances and communicate their findings clearly.

For example, if a homeowner believes recently completed work has resulted in an unexpected defect, having the concern professionally documented can provide a clearer starting point for discussions with the relevant parties. Similarly, where a property owner is unsure whether a visible issue requires further attention, professional assessment can help clarify what has been observed.

The aim is to give the property owner a better understanding of the situation so that future decisions can be made using relevant information.

Choosing the Right Building Consultancy for Your Project

The type of professional advice required will depend on the property and the issue involved. Before engaging a building consultancy, it is useful to clearly identify what you need assessed and what questions you want the consultation to address.

Consider whether the consultant’s experience and services are relevant to your particular situation. It is also important that the consultant can communicate technical findings clearly and provide documentation that is practical to use.

For a property owner, good communication matters just as much as technical knowledge. Building issues can be difficult to navigate when they are not clearly explained, so practical communication can make the overall process easier to understand.

A suitable building consultant Sydney property owners engage should be able to approach the specific circumstances of the property rather than relying on generic observations. The assessment should remain focused on the client’s concerns and provide information that can support informed decisions.

Professional Building Advice for Sydney Properties

Building concerns do not always come with straightforward answers. A property may have an existing defect, a renovation may raise unexpected questions, or construction work may require independent assessment. In these situations, professional advice can help establish a clearer picture of what is happening.

Awesim Building Consultants provides professional building consultancy services for clients who require advice and assessment relating to building matters in Sydney. Ultimately, effective building consultation is about more than identifying problems. It is about helping property owners understand the condition of their building, interpret technical information and approach important decisions with greater clarity.

Whether consultation is required for an existing property, renovation, construction concern or building defect, obtaining appropriate professional advice can provide a clearer foundation for the decisions that follow. If you need professional guidance with a building matter in Sydney, contact Awesim Building Consultants to discuss your requirements and find out how their building consultancy services can assist.

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.

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