Member News

Unlicensed tradespeople chase the sun

Summer is here but so too are unlicensed individuals looking to perform unlawful building work.

The Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) is urging home owners to only use licensed contractors to work on their properties.

QBCC Acting Commissioner, Kellie Lowe, said scammers seeking to maximise their time in the sun as well as their income often prey on the vulnerable and elderly.

Ms Lowe said that residents should especially exercise caution when it comes to door-to-door tradespeople and ask to see their trade licence.

“Unfortunately as we head into summer, unscrupulous individuals tend to travel north looking for work and to target unsuspecting home owners,” Ms Lowe said.

“It is important that residents always ask to see their contractor licence to make sure they are licensed to perform the type of work they are quoting for.

“Individuals who demand upfront or excessive payments should be avoided, as this is a sure sign that they are not doing the right thing by the home owner.”

Home owners can check a licensee’s credentials by using the free licensee search on the QBCC website.

Anyone with concerns about unlicensed contracting can call the QBCC 24/7 on 139 333 or visit www.qbcc.qld.gov.au