Brisbane warned about door-to-door traders after storm damage

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Kerry Shine is warning Brisbane residents to be on the alert for dodgy itinerant traders offering to repair damage to homes after Sunday’s storm.

“Many families are now facing big clean ups and extensive repairs on the family home following torrential rain, hail and strong winds,” Mr Shine said.

“While many have been left devastated by the damage, unfortunately there are deceitful people out there who prey on others’ misfortunes.

“Some unscrupulous traders make their money by approaching consumers at home and offering to cut down and remove trees, repair and paint roofs and re-lay driveways for cash.

“Often the work done by these traders is of poor quality and you may end up paying large amounts for shoddy work.”

Mr Shine said anyone who was approached at home by a door-to-door trader offering to repair damage around the house should first ensure they are dealing with a licensed trader.

“If you are approached by a trader offering to repair any damage, don’t rush into a decision.

“Even if the trader offers to do the job for a low price, you need to be wary and should always ask to see the trader's licence.

“If you need emergency repairs done, the trader does not have to provide a 10-day cooling-off period, but they must provide you with a proper contract and not harass or force you in any way to agree to have the work done.”

Mr Shine said if the damage is not an emergency, consumers should get a number of quotes from different traders before they agree to have any repairs carried out.

“Consumers should also contact their insurance company directly to find out what damage is covered by their insurance.

“Queensland’s fair trading laws offer people protections when they are dealing with door-to-door traders, but consumers do need to know their rights.”

Under the Fair Trading Act door-to-door traders must:
• restrict door-to-door trading hours to 9am-6pm Monday to Friday and 9am-5pm on Saturday, with no trading allowed on Sundays and public holidays

• provide a written contract clearly stating the breakdown of costs, including GST and the total price, for the sale of goods or services valued at more than $75

• allow a 10 day cooling-off period for consumers to cancel a contract, with no payments to be taken or work commenced during this time (except for emergency repairs)

• provide consumers with information about how to cancel agreements, and

• carry and present identification.

“If anyone believes a trader has misled or deceived them about their qualifications or an affiliation they do not have, they should lodge a complaint with the Office of Fair Trading as soon as possible at www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au or by calling 13 13 04,” Mr Shine said.

Media contact Chris Taylor 0419 710 874