NSW Fair Trading Minister, Linda Burney, today warned Blacktown residents to be wary of dodgy tradespeople looking to cash in on the storms that swept across the area. 

Ms Burney said it is no secret that storms like last week’s bring shonky builders and roof tilers out of the warped woodwork in a bid to catch desperate home owners off guard. 

“The shonks usually knock on the front doors of storm affected houses. Their work is most often second-rate and usually requires more repairs later. 

“I urge all affected homeowners to contact Fair Trading to check that any builder or tradesperson they want to use is properly licensed before engaging them.”

Ms Burney also alerted tenants and landlords to problems that arise when rented properties need repairs. 

“Tenancy laws in NSW allow for tenants to organise urgent repairs when necessary and seek reimbursement from the landlord or agent,” Ms Burney said. 

“Before undertaking any urgent repairs, always check with the landlord or agent, especially when it comes to any major work such as removing sodden carpets.

“In cases where the damage is so severe the place can no longer be lived in, or only partially lived in, provisions exist for terminating the lease early. Where the home is damaged but the tenant can continue to reside there, they may be able to negotiate a rent reduction until repairs are made.” 

Fair Trading is part of the NSW Government Disaster Recovery Committee which was set up to assist in the response and recovery process following the December storms. 

“Fair Trading’s Home Building investigators will continue to visit affected areas during the period of repairs to facilitate compliance with fair trading and building laws,” Ms Burney said.

“In addition, the Deputy Registrar of the Penrith Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal attended two sessions in Blacktown today, to provide information about legal help for people affected by the storms and floods.”

A licence check on a builder or tradesperson can be performed at this website, just follow the prompts. Information for tenants, landlords and agents can also by found on the website or by calling 13 32 20.

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