18.2 C
Byron Shire
March 29, 2024

Beware of flood damage scams

Latest News

Man charged over domestic violence and pursuit offences – Tweed Heads

A man has been charged following a pursuit near Tweed Heads on Monday.

Other News

Murwillumbah’s Rebecca Whan recognised for tireless work post 2022 floods

Murwillumbah was severely impacted by the 2022 floods and it was a huge community effort to support, rescue and inspire everyone to move forward. 

Superbowls

Superbowls is your go-to spot for a burst of woodfired flavour! Nestled in Byron Arts and Industry Estate, the...

Could the future of the Richmond River be a clean and healthy one?

Imagine a drinkable, swimmable, fishable Richmond River? That is the aim of the Richmond Riverkeepers Association.

Seize the Decade report outlines benefits of renewables

The Climate Council says many more Australian families can directly benefit from rooftop solar and batteries under a new plan that spells out how we can electrify the nation and cut climate pollution this decade.

Save Wallum finalist in NSW 2024 environment awards

The Save Wallum campaign has been named as a finalist in the Nature Conservation Council of NSW Environment Awards 2024. The award ceremony will be held in Sydney tonight, and Save Wallum spokesperson and ecologist James Barrie will be attending with Tegan Kitt, another founding member of the group.

Splendour 2024 cancelled

It's official, Splendour in the Grass 2024 has been cancelled.

Flooding near Eltham recently. Photo David Lowe.

NSW Fair Trading is warning consumers about opportunistic tradespeople trying to take advantage during the flood recovery process as the state gets back on its feet.

Commissioner for NSW Fair Trading Rose Webb said unfortunately scammers often try to take advantage of vulnerable people during times like these. She urged consumers to be on the alert.

‘With the destructive floods across NSW, consumers are reminded that anyone who undertakes work to rebuild or repair damaged homes is required to have a valid licence,’ said Ms Webb.

‘Avoid workers who simply show up without contact to offer their services and
consumers should also check with their insurance provider before authorising any home repairs,’ she said.

The Commissioner also suggested consumers should avoid cash transactions if possible, in case chargebacks from financial institutions are required. ‘It’s also a good idea to ask family and friends for a recommendation rather than choosing a trader from an advertisement,’ said Ms Webb.

NSW Fair Trading warns that recent cases which have come to their attention include unlicensed tradespeople targeting affected communities by offering house repairs, concreting, paving, structural landscaping, and roof repairs. These services require a licence if the work is valued at over $5000.

Fair Trading offers an online tool on its website where consumers can verify licence details and check whether a contractor or tradesperson is qualified to do the job.

Consumer advice

When choosing a tradesperson or contractor, NSW Fair Trading advises:

  • Get two or more written quotes for the job
  • Do not hand over money before meeting your tradesperson
  • Ask the trader for references and examples of past work
  • Avoid payments without a written contract
  • Avoid traders who charge significant deposits

Anyone who has had problems in their dealings with tradespeople or contractors can lodge a complaint online. For more information about what to look out for when rebuilding after a natural disaster, visit www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/news-and-updates/news/natural-disasters

 


Support The Echo

Keeping the community together and the community voice loud and clear is what The Echo is about. More than ever we need your help to keep this voice alive and thriving in the community.

Like all businesses we are struggling to keep food on the table of all our local and hard working journalists, artists, sales, delivery and drudges who keep the news coming out to you both in the newspaper and online. If you can spare a few dollars a week – or maybe more – we would appreciate all the support you are able to give to keep the voice of independent, local journalism alive.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Where should affordable housing go in Tweed Shire?

Should affordable and social housing in the Tweed Shire be tucked away in a few discreet corners? Perhaps it should be on the block next to where you live?

Making Lismore Showground accessible to everyone

The Lismore Showground isn’t just a critical local community asset that plays host to a number of major events each year, but has also been used as an evacuation centre during past natural disasters in the region. 

Iconic Lennox beach shed upgraded –  not demolished

Lennox Park and the shelter shed has now been upgraded and reopened.

Govt cost-shifting ‘erodes financially sustainable local government’

Byron Shire Council looks set to add its voice to the growing chorus calling on the state government to stop shifting responsibilities and costs onto local government.