Get in Touch
office@lacenbelder.com
(03) 9859 5772
PO BOX 109,
Kew East 3102,
Melbourne, VIC
Monday - Friday
7:30am - 5:00pm
*Saturday by appointment
Frequently Asked
Questions
Services & Capabilities
We specialise in complex remedial construction, including water ingress and waterproofing failures, combustible cladding rectification, structural deterioration, building envelope failures, and heritage building restoration. Our expertise covers both investigation/diagnosis and complete remediation solutions.
Yes, we specialise in working on occupied buildings, including apartments, offices, and heritage properties. We understand the challenges of minimal disruption and have developed staging approaches that allow residents and businesses to continue normal operations during construction.
Yes, we provide end-to-end services from initial building investigation and diagnosis through to complete remedial construction. This integrated approach ensures consistency between diagnosis and solution, reducing project risks and timelines.
Absolutely. We have extensive experience with heritage buildings and work closely with Heritage Victoria and local councils. Our team understands the unique requirements for heritage conservation while achieving modern performance standards.
Yes, we respond to urgent building safety issues and emergency repairs. Our team can provide temporary stabilisation, weather protection, and immediate safety measures while developing comprehensive long-term solutions.
Approach & Process
We refuse to offer "Band-Aid" solutions. Our process begins with a thorough investigation to identify root causes, not just symptoms. We collaborate closely with engineers, heritage consultants, and fire safety specialists to ensure every solution is compliant, durable, and cost-effective.
Our process follows four key stages: 1) Investigation & Diagnosis - thorough assessment of building issues, 2) Design & Engineering - developing compliant solutions with specialist consultants, 3) Approvals & Planning - managing permits and regulatory approvals, 4) Construction & Delivery - executing the remedial work with minimal disruption.
We use staged construction approaches, maintain clear access routes, implement dust and noise control measures, and provide regular communication updates. For occupied buildings, we coordinate with residents/tenants to schedule disruptive work during appropriate hours.
Timeframes & Delivery
Project timelines vary significantly based on complexity, building size, and the extent of remediation required. Small-scale waterproofing repairs might take 2-4 weeks, while complex cladding rectification or major structural work can take 6-18 months. We provide detailed project schedules during the design phase.
We primarily service Melbourne and surrounding metropolitan areas, with particular expertise in inner-city, heritage, and architecturally significant buildings. We also undertake selected regional projects for complex remedial work.
Approvals, Compliance & Safety
Yes, we manage all necessary approvals, including building permits, heritage approvals, and council submissions. Our team has extensive experience navigating regulatory requirements and maintains strong relationships with local authorities.
We work exclusively with qualified tradespeople and maintain strict quality control processes. All work is supervised by licensed builders and inspected at key stages. We ensure full compliance with building codes, fire safety requirements, and accessibility standards.
We work closely with building surveyors and fire engineers to develop compliant solutions that meet current building codes while respecting existing building constraints. Our approach includes performance-based solutions where prescriptive compliance isn't practical.
We maintain strict OH&S protocols including risk assessments, safety inductions, personal protective equipment requirements, and regular safety inspections. Our safety management systems comply with WorkSafe Victoria requirements.
Yes, Lacen Belder is fully licensed as a building contractor and carries comprehensive professional indemnity and public liability insurance. We maintain all required registrations, and our team includes licensed builders, engineers, and trade specialists.
Pricing & Commercials
Our pricing is based on a detailed investigation and the findings and scope of work required. We provide transparent, itemised quotes that clearly break down investigation costs, design fees, materials, labour, and project management. No hidden costs or surprise variations.
Key cost factors include: extent of building defects, accessibility challenges, heritage requirements, building occupancy constraints, materials selection, and timeline requirements. We work with you to balance quality outcomes with budget constraints.
Yes, we offer a free initial consultation via phone or email to understand your building concerns and advise on next steps. For most projects, site inspections and detailed assessments are paid services as outlined in our Schedule of Rates. However, for larger or more complex remedial projects, we may offer a complimentary site inspection prior to formal engagement.
Yes, we structure payments around project milestones to manage cash flow for larger remedial projects. Payment schedules are agreed upon up front and tied to the completion of specific work stages.
Yes, we provide comprehensive warranties on all our remedial construction work. Warranty periods vary depending on the type of work - typically 6-12 months for defect rectification and up to 10 years for major waterproofing and structural work. We stand behind our work and remain responsive for any callbacks.
Experience & Credibility
Our team brings over 95 years of combined experience in remedial construction, with specific expertise in heritage buildings, complex waterproofing, and building envelope failures. We maintain ongoing relationships with specialist engineers and heritage consultants.
Yes, we can provide references from recent projects upon request. Our case studies on the website showcase completed work, and we're happy to arrange site visits to view our remedial construction outcomes where appropriate.
Simply contact us to discuss your building issue. From there, we'll guide you through the next steps, which typically include a site inspection, a detailed assessment, and a tailored proposal outlining the recommended investigation and scope of remedial work.