Casino residents are being reminded to watch out for dodgy traders trying to cash in on yesterday’s storm damage.

Fair Trading Minister Virginia Judge said unlicensed traders usually target properties that have been damaged by storms in the hope of making a quick buck.

“Quite often, when there is a severe storm or flood, Fair Trading receives reports of homeowners being ripped off by unscrupulous traders,” she said.

“They target people at their most vulnerable, hoping to catch desperate residents off guard.

“These people are not concerned about consumer rights or the law; instead they prey on the need to fix problems quickly.

“They usually stick around long enough to be paid and then disappear. More often than not, the work is substandard and the family is left out of pocket.”

Ms Judge said Fair Trading staff can assist by:

• providing information on how to choose suitable tradespeople to carry out repairs;
• checking that traders are properly licensed and insured;
• advising people in rented accommodation and their landlords about their rights and obligations; and,
• providing access to debt counselling for those in financial difficulties.

“I urge storm victims not to deal with tradespeople who are unlicensed and uninsured,” she said.

“Builders caught operating without the appropriate licence can face fines of up to $22,000.

“Consumers can check if a trader is licensed by contacting Fair Trading on 13 32 20 or going to the website.

“Storm damage can also be a major issue for landlords, tenants and real estate agents.

“Before carrying out any urgent repairs, tenants should always check with the landlord or agent and refer to the tenancy agreement.”

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