Fair Trading Minister, Linda Burney, today said staff from her agency are playing an active role as part of the NSW Government’s Emergency Response Team to assist residents affected by the recent North Coast floods.

Ms Burney said Fair Trading is assisting by:

• providing information on how to choose suitable tradespeople to carry out repairs
• checking that tradespeople offering to do work are properly licensed and insured
• advising people in rented accommodation, and their landlords, about their rights and obligations, and
• replacing Fair Trading documentation, such as business licence certificates, for free.

“Nothing can fully compensate residents who have seen crops, livestock, houses or possessions damaged by flooding,” Ms Burney said.

“However, Fair Trading will do what it can, where it can, to help people get back on their feet.

“People needing to repair or rebuild homes need to be wary of shonky builders looking to make a quick buck by moving on as soon as they are paid – before the shoddy nature of their work becomes obvious.

“Fair Trading can advise consumers if the builder or tradesperson they are planning to use is appropriately licensed as well as provide information on laws about maximum deposits and contracts.

“Staff can also offer advice to renters, landlords and real estate agents on their rights and responsibilities in relation to flood damaged properties.

“Renters may need urgent repairs or feel they should be compensated for damage to their accommodation.”

Ms Burney said that as soon as waters recede, Fair Trading staff will be delivering information to homes in affected areas to advise individuals of their rights and responsibilities.

Fair Trading information and assistance is available by calling 13 32 20 or visiting your nearest Fair Trading Centre .

Back to Media releases