Published: 23 October 2014
Category: Industry News
NSW Fair Trading Minister Matthew Mason-Cox today urged residents affected by the recent storms not to rush to have repairs done without checking the credentials of tradespeople.
The NSW State Emergency Services (SES) has reported that as of this morning they have received more than 1,500 requests for emergency assistance due to storms, torrential rain and damaging winds.
Most calls to the SES are from the Illawarra, South Coast and Sydney’s southern and south western suburbs.
Mr Mason-Cox said that when storm affected residents were at their most vulnerable, shonky tradespeople will appear.
“These people are not the knights in shining armour they depict themselves as,” he said.
“They are predominantly unlicensed, their work is substandard and are only interested in making a quick buck.
"Quite often, these people quickly leave the area as soon as they have been paid, leaving the consumer with no form of redress.”
“If you are approached by a tradesperson, residents should first check with NSW Fair Trading to ensure the trader has the appropriate licence.
“Residents can check a licence online at Fair Trading website or call 13 32 20.
“Anyone who is approached by an unlicensed tradesperson should report it immediately to NSW Fair Trading.
“If you have premises covered by an insurance policy, it is also a good idea to contact your insurer before commencing repairs, since a number of companies have preferred contractor schemes for this work.”
Mr Mason-Cox said roofs fitted with solar panels could generate an electrical current, whether or not the electrical supply from the state grid had been turned off, particularly if the roof had tree branches down or damaged by other storm debris.
“If you have any doubt as to integrity of your solar system, contact a licensed electrician immediately,” Mr Mason-Cox said.
Storm damage can be a major issue for landlords, tenants and real estate agents when a rental property is damaged.
“Fair Trading can provide advice on rights and obligations with regard to urgent repairs and compensation,” he said.
Fair Trading can help storm affected residents by:
- providing information on how to choose suitable tradespeople to carry out repairs
- providing information about deposits and contracts
- advising people in rented accommodation and their landlords about their rights and obligations
- providing referrals to other service providers, including legal and financial specialists.
For SES emergency assistance call 132 500. Please call 000 if it is a life-threatening emergency.