Don’t let dodgy handymen cash in on cyclone rebuild
Posted by editor (editor) on Mar 25 2010
2010 >>

Minister for Fair Trading Peter Lawlor is warning dodgy itinerant traders that they will be met with the full force of the law if they target vulnerable families as they clean-up and rebuild from Cyclone Ului.

Mr Lawlor said dodgy handymen often prey on the vulnerable and may try to get jobs helping to repair homes and buildings damaged by Cyclone Ului.

"The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) often receives information about itinerant traders, particularly after events such as natural disasters, who go from town to town peddling their services,” he said.

“My concern is they might try to cash in on repair jobs in these areas.

"A lot of the time they pressure people, overcharge on the work and do a job that simply isn't up to scratch, leaving the owner with even more of a mess to fix.

"There is a risk that groups of itinerant traders such as electricians, carpenters and the like could band together and target homes hit by the cyclone."

“These traders are swift and slimy and get in and out of town as quick as you can open your wallet.

“If I can get the message out there now, then it might save some people a lot more heartache.”

Mr Lawlor said door-to-door sales of goods or services worth more than $75 usually needed to come with a 10-day cooling off period, during which payment cannot be taken.

"However, door-to-door trading rules do not apply to emergency repairs in situations such as a cyclone, to allow work to be done that simply can't wait."

Mr Lawlor said home owners should still do their checks if approached in their home by a trader and did not have to accept quotes on the spot.

"If you do not know the company go online to check their website, call their head office to confirm their existence or perhaps check with someone else in town if they've used the trader's services," he said.

"Additionally check they have an identity card with their full name and address.

"For any building work, tradesmen should also be able to produce their Building Services Authority licence which demonstrates they are licensed to do that work.

"A simple check to see if they are licensed can be done on the BSA’s website www.bsa.qld.gov.au

"I encourage those who do not have urgent repairs to get quotes if possible. Make sure you get the quote in writing as well as a proper receipt."

Report any scams or suspicious traders to the Office of Fair Trading at www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au or call 13 13 04.

Last changed: Mar 25 2010 at 10:27 AM