CAIRNS CONSUMERS BEWARE

Minister for Public Works, Housing and Information and Communication Technologies, Robert Schwarten, warns consumers in the Cairns and Cooktown areas against engaging the building services of Mr Joseph Ronald Gass.

On 20 June 2006 the Queensland Building Services Authority (BSA) cancelled the pool building licence of Mr Gass after investigations revealed Mr Gass was not performing works diligently, was not obtaining building approvals, was refusing to rectify defects and owed money to subcontractors and suppliers.

“Mr Gass is unable to perform any building work such as concreting or the installation of pools or spas and is also unable to quote, enter into building contracts or take deposits, relating to building work,” said Mr Schwarten.

“The BSA has received reports that Mr Gass is operating illegally in the Cairns and Cooktown areas. This is obviously a cause for concern and we warn consumers, subcontractors and suppliers to be cautious in their dealings with Mr Gass. Any details of Mr Gass’ current building activities in the area should be reported to the BSA for investigation.”

General manager of the BSA, Ian Jennings, advises that, under the Queensland Building Services Authority Act 1991, all builders, building designers and trade contractors must be licensed to carry out building work.

“All building work performed in Queensland and valued in excess of $1,100, must be carried out by a licensed contractor or by an owner builder. We recommend the use of a licensed contractor even for small jobs, because the licence indicates that the contractor has met certain minimum standards which will result in the consumer getting a better job done. Always ask to sight their BSA licence card and if they can’t show you their licence card… show them the door,” he said

For further information on BSA’s services, visit www.bsa.qld.gov.au or phone

1300 272 272.

Media contacts: Minister Schwarten’s office –3237 1184;

BSA – Justin Coomber 3404 3027 or Heidi Jones 3225 2996.