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Property managers in the middle of clean-up efforts after recent floods and storms are being warned about unskilled labourers and scammers offering discounted work.
According to NSW Fair Trading commissioner Rod Stowe, both unskilled labourers and out-and-out scammers are often quick on the scene when disaster strikes.
“They seek to make a quick buck and move on as soon as they are paid, leaving unfinished or shoddy work behind,” he said.
“Home building repairs, including roof tiling, painting, glazing and fencing involving materials and labour over $1,000, as well as all electrical wiring and plumbing work are jobs for which you should only use a licensed tradesperson."
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Anyone caught operating without an appropriate licence can face fines of up to $22,000.
According to Mr Stowe, landlords and property managers should be wary of people purporting to be collecting for relief fundraising.
“People should donate through official channels and to authorised charitable organisations. If approached on the street, ask to see identification and if in doubt, choose other means to donate,” he said.
“Flood-affected residents should also not provide bank details or any other personal information over the phone.”
You can check trade licences online at the Fair Trading website or call Fair Trading on 13 32 20 for help.
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