Standard Terms of Engagement
Schedule B — Standard Terms of Engagement · Last updated October 2026
These terms apply to all instructions given to Meridian Forensic Building Consultants ('Meridian'). By instructing Meridian, you agree to these terms.
1. Definitions
In these terms: 'Client' means the person or entity that instructs Meridian; 'Instruction' means a written or oral request to Meridian to provide services; 'Report' means any written report, advice or opinion prepared by Meridian; 'Services' means the forensic building consultancy services described in the Instruction.
2. Instructions
Instructions must be in writing (including email). Meridian will confirm acceptance of an Instruction in writing. Meridian may decline an Instruction without giving reasons.
3. Conflict check
Meridian conducts a conflict check before accepting an Instruction. If a conflict arises after an Instruction is accepted, Meridian will notify the Client and may withdraw from the matter.
4. Fees
Fees are as quoted in writing before the Instruction is accepted. Fixed fees apply to standard reports. Expert witness reports are quoted per matter. Hourly rates apply to other expert witness work and to matters outside a standard scope. Fees are exclusive of GST.
5. Disbursements
Site inspections are included where the Fees page lists them. Travel within 100 km of Drouin is included; tolls and parking are charged at cost. Travel beyond 100 km, accommodation and interstate travel costs are charged as set out on the Fees page. Interstate instructions are accepted by arrangement. Other disbursements (such as specialist testing) are charged at cost plus 10%, with prior approval.
6. Invoicing
Meridian invoices on delivery of the Report, or as otherwise agreed. Payment terms are as set out in Meridian's fee schedule or as agreed in writing.
7. Late payment
Meridian may charge interest on overdue amounts at the rate of 10% per annum, calculated daily from the due date. Meridian may withhold delivery of a Report until outstanding fees are paid.
8. Scope of services
Meridian's services are limited to the scope described in the Instruction. Meridian is not responsible for matters outside that scope. If the scope changes, Meridian will notify the Client and confirm any change in fee before proceeding.
9. Liability
Meridian's liability to the Client for any claim arising out of or in connection with the Services is limited to the fee paid for the relevant Report. Meridian is not liable for any indirect, consequential or special loss or damage. [Liability cap amount: placeholder pending legal review — cl 9.2]
10. Insurance
Meridian holds professional indemnity, public liability and cyber liability insurance. Certificates of currency are available on request.
11. Reliance
Reports are prepared for the Client and for the purpose stated in the Instruction. Meridian is not responsible for reliance on a Report by any person other than the Client, or for any purpose other than the stated purpose.
12. Force majeure
Meridian is not liable for delay or failure to perform caused by circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to natural disasters (such as bushfire, flood, earthquake, cyclone or severe storm), pandemic or epidemic, acts of terrorism, war, civil unrest, government-imposed restrictions, failure of third-party infrastructure, or other events that could not reasonably have been anticipated or prevented. If such circumstances continue for more than [placeholder — cl 12.3 pending legal review] days, either party may terminate the Instruction by written notice.
13. Confidentiality
Meridian will keep the Client's information confidential and will not disclose it to third parties without the Client's consent, except as required by law or professional obligation.
14. Intellectual property
Meridian retains intellectual property in its report templates and methodology. The Client has a licence to use the Report for the purpose stated in the Instruction.
15. Governing law
These terms are governed by the laws of Victoria, Australia. The parties submit to the non-exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Victoria.
16. Entire agreement
These terms, together with the Instruction and any written fee confirmation, constitute the entire agreement between the parties in relation to the Services.