After the build: Why documentation makes all the difference in disputes

By

Shauna Hurley

and Adrian Brown

Last Updated May 27, 2026

By

Shauna Hurley

and Adrian Brown

As AI, digital twins and automation advance, so too does the expectation that builders can capture every decision, detail and data point on and off site. The reality is that most aren’t yet set up to do so.

Recognising this, Melbourne-based commercial builder Jointly has focused on building systems that track decisions, verify work and create a reliable visual record of the job — so when issues arise down the track, there is clear, verifiable evidence of what was done and when.

A complete, detailed history of every project

Technology is so sophisticated now that clients have come to expect that everything’s been scanned, everything’s visible, it’s all done on fancy computers — and therefore you must know where everything is.

Something in the concrete? Sure, you know exactly to the millimetre where it is. But realistically, have you seen how concrete gets poured? Traditionally you’d be saying 'You’re kidding me.'

Now the expectation is that we know where it all is.

Adrian Brown

Founding Director

Jointly

The bar at The Pelican, built by Jointly at the Melbourne Airport. See more of the project [Facebook].

The Brunetti Classico cafe, built by Jointly at the Melbourne Airport. See more of the project [Facebook].

For most projects, questions are often raised months or even years after completion. Clients come back saying something isn’t working, is missing, or wasn’t built the way they expected.

That’s where documentation becomes critical — what was done, when and to what specification.

Capturing the job as it happens

That ability to go back and prove what happened depends entirely on what was captured at the time. At Jointly, that’s not left to chance.

It’s just a minimum expectation now. It’s embedded in what we do. Whether it’s the project manager running the financials at the end of the month, or the tools we use to engage a subcontractor, or where’s the latest drawing for the chippy doing his wall set out — it’s all coming out of the one system.

Adrian Brown

Founding Director

Jointly

One of the clearest examples of Jointly’s commitment to documenting projects from beginning to end is their integration with Procore and Matterport — a 3D scanning tool that captures a complete visual site record. 

A recladding project in regional Victoria saw the Jointly team entirely reclad 2,000 m2 in under 4 weeks. See a flyover video [Instagram].

The result: Disputes resolved before they start

This ability to show clearly what was done and when doesn’t just reduce disputes: It changes how risk is managed across the life of a project.

For builders, the takeaway is straightforward. If the work isn’t captured as it happens, it becomes harder and more expensive to resolve later. What feels like a minor gap at handover can turn into a warranty issue years later with no clear evidence to resolve it.

The difference is having a complete, accessible record of the job — drawings, decisions, photos and site conditions — all in one place. As Adrian has seen first hand, when that’s in place, issues can be resolved quickly. When it’s not, you’re relying on memory, assumptions or chasing people who may no longer be around.

In an environment where expectations are rising and margins are tight, that level of oversight and documentation is becoming essential.

In the final part of the series, Adrian looks at how AI-generated quotes are reshaping estimating and the new challenges this creates for builders trying to price and win work.

Written by

Shauna Hurley

16 articles

Shauna is never short of questions when it comes to construction, tech and science. A professional writer, researcher and podcast producer, she loves sitting down with industry insiders for in-depth interviews that uncover the latest developments, debates and emerging trends. Having worked with organisations like Microsoft and the European Bank of Reconstruction, Shauna joined Procore to explore the complex issues facing construction and share fresh, research-rich insights that help professionals navigate a rapidly evolving industry.

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Adrian Brown

Founding Director | Jointly

Adrian Brown is a founding director of Jointly, a leading commercial builder based in Melbourne. A degree qualified Civil Engineer, Adrian has delivered projects in all corners of Australia and the UK. He combines a passion for building with an interest in the way evolving tech tools can support his team and growing business.

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