Guidelines for media advertising staff
If you publish advertisements for the building trade you have certain obligations under the law. The Home Building Act 1989 and Australian Consumer Law apply to print, online, television, radio and other advertising.
The Act prohibits a company or individual from advertising for any residential building work over $5,000 or specialist work of any value (electrical wiring, plumbing, draining, gas fitting, air conditioning and refrigeration work) to be done without having a current contractor licence.
Advertising checklist
Check that advertisements include:
- licensee's name (individual, company or business name registered to the licensee)
- licence number with correct category of work and
- business telephone number.
Note: You cannot state a price that is only a part of the cost unless the single price is also clearly stated.
Advertisers’ details
You should make sure you have a system in place so you can identify who placed an advertisement. It should include:
- company/business name
- full name and phone number of the contact person
- complete street address.
False and misleading advertisements
Advertisements should not make statements or representations that are not true or likely to mislead or deceive. A builder or tradesperson should not persuade clients using any statement, representation or promise that is false, misleading or deceptive; or by the concealment of a material fact.
Filler advertisement
Below is a filler advertisement that can be used if space is available. It alerts homeowners to check the advertisement details.
NSW Fair Trading requires building and trades advertisements to include:
- licensee’s name (individual, company or business name)
- licence number with correct category of work and
- business telephone number.