WA developer fails registration, leaving 230+ homes unfinished

Nicheliving, which touts itself as “Western Australia’s largest affordable house and land developer”, was deemed by the board to have failed to satisfy the financial requirements for registration.

Without registration, the company is unable carry out or take on any new building work valued at $20,000 or more, or that requires a building permit.

In the month prior to the board’s decision, Nicheliving managing director Ronnie Michel-Elhaj stated that the company would not take on any new projects while it worked to complete existing builds.

It is understood that the company has left over 230 home building contracts unfinished.

Any Nicheliving clients who have been left with unfinished projects are advised to check if they have a home indemnity insurance (HII) policy with Projex Management & Construction, and to contact QBE on 1300 790 723 to discuss a payout.

Home owners are able to claim up to $40,000 for a lost deposit, and up to $200,000 to complete or rectify building work.

Saj Abdoolakhan, building commissioner for Western Australia, stated that the board’s decision “will no doubt be welcomed by many home owners who have faced significant stress and delays to their projects with this company”.

“The registration and renewal rules provide important consumer protections and bolster the confidence of all participants in WA’s building and construction industry,” he said.

“Applications are thoroughly assessed to ensure registration is granted only to building service providers who meet a range of requirements set out in legislation. For building contractors, this includes the capacity to meet debts as and when they fall due, showing they have the financial means to complete building contracts.”