Expert Opinion on Construction Costs

We have made the decision to step back from formal expert witness engagements for NCAT and court proceedings. We focus on providing independent cost opinions for matters being resolved through negotiation or informal dispute resolution.

An expert opinion is an independent professional assessment prepared to assist parties in understanding a cost related issue, often used to support negotiation or settlement discussions. Expert witness evidence is formally prepared in accordance with court or tribunal procedural requirements and is intended to be relied upon in formal legal proceedings. We provide the former, not the latter.

If your matter is proceeding to NCAT and requires a formally engaged expert witness, we recommend seeking a quantity surveyor who specialises in this area of practice. We are happy to discuss your matter to confirm whether it falls within or outside our current scope of services.

This depends on the nature of the dispute. Generally we require the relevant contract, plans and specifications, any variation claims or correspondence, and any other documentation relevant to the matter. Contact us to discuss what you have available and we can advise whether it is sufficient to proceed.

In most cases, no. Cost opinions can be prepared using digital documentation, plans and photographs. If a site inspection is required we will discuss this with you before proceeding.

​Yes. If following the session you decide you need a formal QS report or estimate, we can provide a feFees vary depending on the complexity of the matter and the scope of the assessment required. Contact us to discuss your matter and we will provide a fee proposal specific to your requirements.e proposal for the relevant service. The session fee is separate to any subsequent report fees.

Yes. If you are unsure whether your matter falls within our current scope of services, the best option is to book a 1-on-1 QS Insight Session. This gives you the chance to discuss your matter directly with Gary Uys FAIQS, CQS for a quick, honest assessment of whether we can help and what your options might be.

We don't offer free consultations for expert opinion matters specifically, however general enquiries about whether your matter is suitable are always free. If you would like more detailed guidance before committing to a formal engagement, you can book a paid 1-on-1 QS Insight Session starting from $99, which gives you direct access to discuss your situation in detail.

While we no longer take on formal expert witness engagements for NCAT, you may still find it useful to book a 1-on-1 QS Insight Session for general guidance on construction cost matters relevant to your dispute, before you engage a quantity surveyor who specialises in NCAT expert witness work.

Not necessarily. For quick questions or general guidance, a 1-on-1 QS Insight Session is often a better fit than a formal engagement. Sessions are casual, low pressure and give you direct access to experienced advice without committing to a full report or opinion.