Buyers' rights in building defect disputes

Knowing a buyers' rights is crucial, while recourse is available for homeowners following the purchase of a new home or a renovation stint, this is not to say that any and all defects can be claimed against the developer and/or renovation contractor.

Being able to differentiate between what is contractually binding and what is mere marketing speak is of great importance.

"Marketing speak should generally not be trusted or relied on to impose any legal obligations on the developer. The developer's legal obligations to the purchasers are contained in the sale-and-purchase agreement," said Rodyk & Davidson partner Ling Tien Wah.