Stark warnings to bushfire victims as fake tradies try to cash in on desperate families trying to rebuild their homes
- Warning sent out to victims to remain weary of unlicensed fake contractors
- Licensed contractors urged to help rebuild homes devastated by the bushfires
- Fake tradies could be facing fines for more than $46,700 for working unlicensed
Fake tradies are expected to target some of the 600 victims who have lost their homes in the devastating bushfires across Queensland and NSW.
The Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) is urging residents of the state to beware of the workers carrying out shoddy work.
Unlicensed building work carries penalties ranging from $2,669 or for repeat offenders over $46,700.
Fake tradies could be fined up to $46,700 dollars for working unlicensed
The QBCC says people should only use licensed contractors when they are approached by tradesman offering to help.
QBCC Commissioner Brett Bassett said: ‘It’s despicable that anyone would try and take advantage of homeowners who have been hit by the disaster.’
Bassett added: ‘The deception by these contracting cowboys also takes away from the good work being performed by licensed contractors doing the right thing.’
There are currently more than 140 fires burning in Queensland and at least 20 homes have been destroyed.
In NSW there are more than 160 fires burning and so far six people have died and more than 600 homes have been destroyed.
Despite fire fighters best efforts, many homes were unable to be saved from the blaze