Property owners involved in two class actions against cladding product makers will now also seek damages for false or misleading representations, litigation funder IMF Bentham says.

The Federal Court of Australia granted its approval last month to the expanded class actions, which commenced last year.

“In addition to the product liability claims against the defendants, the actions will now also include claims for false or misleading representations and misleading conduct with respect to Alucobond PE Core Cladding and Vitrabond PE Core Cladding,” IMF Bentham says.

William Roberts Lawyers is representing the plaintiffs in the two lawsuits against Alucobond makers 3A Composites and HVG, and Vitrabond maker Fairview Architectural.

Property owners, owners’ corporations and long-term lease holders in the class actions allege they have suffered or will suffer financial loss from having to pay for the removal of the “combustible” cladding materials.

In New Zealand the litigation funder’s previously announced plan for a similar cladding class action is progressing.

It will hold three information meetings this month with law firm Russell McVeagh for property owners and other parties keen to find out more about the proposed lawsuit against “certain manufacturers” of Alucobond and Vitrabond PE core cladding products.

“We’re working towards filing proceedings,” Russell McVeagh Senior Associate Michael Taylor told insuranceNEWS.com.au.

“Our focus at the moment is on reaching out to building owners who may be affected including owners that haven’t been identified on the two lists published by Auckland and Wellington councils.

“We have had a number of inquires and we’re excited about it. Momentum is growing.”