BEWARE HOUSE CLADDING RIP-OFFS

Acting Fair Trading Minister Geoff Wilson warns of two itinerant traders making the rounds in the Hawthorne area, offering to seal cladding on the sides of homes.

The scammers ripped-off an elderly Hawthorne couple yesterday of $5000 for just 30 minutes’ work.

“They turned up at the couple’s house unannounced, offering to apply some waterproof sealant to cladding to supposedly stop rising damp in the walls,” Mr Wilson said.

“The men said the substance used was expensive and ‘$100 a gallon’.

“They even drove the man, who is in his 80s, to the bank and waited in their car while he withdrew his money.

“Police have been notified. In the meantime I ask the public to keep an eye out for these scammers.

“The men are both of Caucasian appearance. One is described as aged 17 to 20 years, 170 cm, slim build, with short black hair and black sideburns.

“The second man appears to be in his mid-40s, around 175cm tall with a thick build and short black hair with grey flecks. He also has a broken front tooth and a slight English accent.

“If you spot these men, call Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.”

Mr Wilson said residents approached by door-to-door tradespeople should:

• ask to see a Queensland Building Services Authority licence;
• not pay cash - don't let the tradesperson take you to a bank and don't pay for anything upfront - not even materials;
• get a written contract; and
• demand a receipt with the trader's name and street address on it.

"Be suspicious of tradespeople who call uninvited, prefer cash payments, do not supply proper receipts or contracts and have easily removable signs, or no signs, on their trucks," Mr Wilson said.

If you suspect a trader might be dishonest, contact the Office of Fair Trading immediately on 13 13 04.

Inquiries: David Smith 3225 1005 / 0409 496 534 or Olivia Nemeth (OFT) 3119 0067