NSW Fair Trading Minister, Linda Burney, today announced that the home building sector will be in the spotlight this month during a campaign in the Hunter/Port Stephens areas to check compliance with home building and electrical consumer safety laws.

Ms Burney said Operation Jig Saw will determine the level of compliance with laws and will also focus on home warranty insurance. This program is an important follow-up in the region given the significant amount of building work carried out following last year’s floods.

“Operation Jig Saw will target traders undertaking major renovations and contracting with owner-builders in the Cessnock, Maitland and Port Stephens council areas,” Ms Burney said.

“Unlicensed contractors and principal contractors engaging them will also come under the scrutiny of Fair Trading investigators.”

Ms Burney said traders contracting with consumers are required to supply home warranty insurance if the contract is in excess of $12,000 whether the person is an owner-builder or not. This insurance covers any defects or incomplete work that may arise should the builder no longer be around to fix the problem.

“Contractors who fail to provide home warranty where it is required may be fined $3,000 for a corporation or $1,500 for an individual. Other offences will also attract considerable penalties.”

“Licence holders are required to meet a number of standards, so trading without a licence is a serious offence and a real risk to unsuspecting home owners.

“Contractors who aren’t licensed are often unqualified, inexperienced and carry out work that is often substandard and dangerous.”

Ms Burney said Fair Trading has been active in bringing about a greater level of education and compliance within the residential building industry. Home building laws exist to protect both consumers and tradespeople and Fair Trading will continue inspection programs like this to continue providing this protection. 

“Checking if a trade contactor is appropriately licensed is as easy as confirming their details on this website or calling 13 32 20.”

Home building online licence check

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