Dodgy bitumen layer alert for Central Queensland
Posted by editor (editor) on Feb 24 2010
2010 >>

Central Queenslanders are warned to be wary of dodgy handymen following reports that travelling tradies might be knocking on doors of businesses offering to lay bitumen driveways.

Fair Trading Minister Peter Lawlor said such operations often comprised a group of men, usually from overseas, who stayed in caravan parks and travelled from town-to-town peddling shonky handiwork to locals for big bucks.

“We know of two instances recently where Rockhampton businesses have been targeted by itinerant traders saying they had bitumen 'leftover from a nearby government job',” Mr Lawlor said.

"I warn Central Queensland businesses that the work and conduct of these sort of traders is usually shoddy.

“Information we've received is that they could be charging more than double, even triple, the wholesale cost of bitumen per square metre so I advise people to shop around.

"It's also important to check the quote carefully in case you get overcharged. Reports tell us the trader might also sneakily tack on an extra few square metres or miscalculate the job without you realising.

“When it comes to the work, we know of cases where the bitumen's been laid too thinly on poorly prepared ground, leaving people with the cost of removing the bitumen and having the driveway re-done.

"Even if the trader does offer a guarantee, it probably means nothing as they usually move on quickly.

Member for Rockhampton Robert Schwarten said the group spotted locally could be anywhere from Gladstone, Emerald, Mackay or out of the area altogether by now.

“I urge all local businesses to do their proper checks before getting any work done,” he said.

"Ask the trader for ID, a contract and proper receipt that has their name and address on it.

"If you're not confident, do not feel pressured to take up the offer on the spot. Give yourself time to think it through if you need it to do more research and get more quotes."

Mr Schwarten said itinerant traders who knocked on the door of homes were bound by the Office of Fair Trading's door to door trading rules, which says they can only approach homes within certain times and must give a cooling off period.

To report suspicious business activity, contact the Office of Fair Trading by visiting www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au or calling 13 13 04.

Minister’s office: 3224 2002

Last changed: Feb 24 2010 at 11:42 AM