Expertise

Construction Law

CONSTRUCTION LAWYERS SHELLHARBOUR

Construction Law Specialists

Our Shellharbour construction lawyers can provide legal advice for projects ranging from modest residential builds to large-scale commercial developments.

Comprehensive Range of Services

We assist with all aspects of construction and development, including property transactions, contract reviews and negotiations, compliance issues, and resolving building-related disputes.

Readily Accessible

With offices throughout Shellharbour and the broader Illawarra region, we’re well placed to assist both individuals and businesses with accessible and reliable legal services.

Bespoke Legal Solutions

At Kells, we don’t offer off-the-shelf solutions. We take the time to understand your priorities and deliver legal outcomes that align with your business goals and support long-term growth.

Here To Help

Starting with the right legal advice can make a significant difference to the success of your project. Without it, even small issues can grow into major disruptions that cost time and money.


Construction projects and home renovations often face legal hurdles, from contract disagreements to planning and compliance setbacks. At Kells, we provide practical, outcome-focused legal advice that helps you manage risks and keep your project on track. Our construction law team is ready to step in, represent your interests, and take clear, commercial action to resolve issues and move things forward.

Construction & Development

Area of Expertise

How Can Our Construction Lawyers in Shellharbour Help?

At Kells, we understand that every development project comes with its own set of goals, risks, and commercial pressures. Contracts, negotiations and approvals all require a considered approach that reflects your broader objectives.


Our construction lawyers in Shellharbour work across all stages of the project lifecycle, managing both transactional and dispute-related matters. We draft clear, robust contracts, assist in negotiations to strengthen your position, and offer practical advice to help identify and manage risk before it becomes an issue.


Should a dispute arise, we move quickly to protect your interests, whether that means pursuing early resolution or representing you through formal proceedings.


From early planning and contract preparation through to resolving disputes and finalising delivery, our team is here to help keep your project moving and legally sound.

  • Front-end (Documentation & Advisory)

    Our experienced front-end construction law team assists with drafting, negotiating and reviewing a wide range of contracts across construction, development and maintenance projects.


    With thorough knowledge of commonly used contract formats — including Australian Standards, GC21, HIA, Master Builders and ABIC — we work to make agreements clear, enforceable and commercially sound.


    Clients often involve us early in the project to establish solid contractual foundations, reduce risk, and avoid disputes. We advise both private and government sector principals, as well as contractors, on all aspects of contract documentation from planning to project delivery.


    We help with:


    • Tenders
    • Design and construct and construct only contracts for both greenfield sites and operational sites where redevelopment or refurbishment is being undertaken
    • Project management, architect, consultant and trades contracts
    • Facilities maintenance and preventative maintenance contracts
    • Subcontracts for contractors who have secured a head contract, ensuring that there are adequate flow-down provisions
    • Construction access deeds
    • Template works and services contracts, together with contract checklist to ensure probity
    • Tripartite deeds between principal, contractor and financier
    • Joint venture agreements
    • Preparation of easements and restrictions on land for registration as a precondition to final occupation certificate.

  • Back-end (Administration & Disputes)

    When construction disputes arise, our back-end team acts quickly to provide clear, outcome-focused advice aimed at resolving issues early and efficiently.


    We are well-versed in matters under the Building and Construction Industry (Security of Payment) Act 1999 (NSW), including preparing payment claims, responses, and adjudication applications.


    If the matter progresses, we represent clients in various forums including mediation, expert determination, arbitration and, where necessary, formal litigation through the Courts or NCAT. Our goal is always to protect your position, limit delays and deliver commercially sensible outcomes.


    Our team also acts on:


    • Environmental contamination and remediation orders
    • Work Health and Safety prosecutions.

Call Our Shellharbour Construction Law Team Today

Legal issues in construction can cause costly delays, increase expenses, and affect the outcome of your project. Our team works alongside you to manage risks, maintain momentum, and support smoother project delivery. We help interpret complex regulations, resolve disputes promptly, and provide the legal structure you need for long-term results.

Get Expert Construction Law Advice in Shellharbour

Have a question about a construction law matter in Shellharbour? Whether you need targeted advice or broader legal guidance, send us a message and our team will get back to you promptly.

Speak to a Construction & Development Lawyer

From contract drafting to dispute resolution, our team is here to help your project stay on track.

Construction & Development

Area of Expertise