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A Western Australian tradesman is being investigated for allegedly collecting almost $80,000 in deposits, then disappearing without starting any of the agreed work.
Western Australia’s Consumer Protection has issued a warning about a Byford tradie as it investigates numerous complaints about his alleged failure to deliver services.
The watchdog is probing Allan Jason Dean Howard, trading as Allan’s Plastering, after he allegedly accepted $78,715 in upfront deposits without commencing the work or providing refunds.
Howard has been the subject of 11 complaints made to Consumer Protection since July 2023, with the majority lodged in March 2025.
According to the complaints, the tradie allegedly failed to carry out tasks including plastering, rendering, roof plumbing, decking, and a garage renovation.
Going by “JD Howard”, he is understood to have solicited business from consumers after they posted advertisements on trade-seeking online platforms and social media groups.
Additionally, Howard allegedly requested deposits of up to 50 per cent of the total work cost, ranging from $1,456 to $21,000.
Under Australian laws, the maximum deposit for home building work valued over $7,500 should be 6.5 per cent of the total price or less, before work commences.
Commissioner for Consumer Protection, Trish Blake, said that through his alleged actions, Howard was likely breaching the Australian Consumer Protection Law.
“In light of the recent influx of complaints, we believe Mr Howard’s business practices pose an ongoing danger to consumers who may engage his services,” she said.
“Despite our repeated efforts to reach Mr Howard and seek remedies for his customers, he remains unresponsive.”
Blake advised consumers to avoid the tradie and seek alternative companies to ensure Western Australian home owners do not suffer further financial loss.
“Recommendations from people you know are great for finding tradies – see who your neighbours, friends and family have used,” she said.
“Consumers with unsatisfactory dealings involving Allan Jason Dean Howard are encouraged to lodge a complaint on the Consumer Protection website,” the watchdog concluded.
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