NSW Fair Trading is warning consumers of dodgy door knockers in Tamworth preying on vulnerable people and using scare tactics to secure work.
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NSW Fair Trading Commissioner Rose Webb said the traders are offering what appears to be cheap work, then charging hugely inflated prices upon completion.
“It’s very concerning that these people are cold-calling innocent residents, providing verbal quotes for cheap driveway improvements, and then bullying them into paying far more than originally stated,” Ms Webb said.
I urge consumers to be on high alert, and not to be pressured into accepting work from traders who randomly turn up on your doorstep.
- NSW Fair Trading Commissioner Rose Webb
“In one instance, a consumer said the traders offered to use up leftover bitumen and lay the driveway for around $6,000, but then demanded $24,000 for the job.”
Under Australian Consumer Law, a cooling off period of 10 business days automatically applies to unsolicited sales where the goods or services are valued at $100 or more.
According to Fair Trading, the men are allegedly using white vehicles with markings indicating they do asphalt work.
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“At this stage we believe the traders remain in the area, and Fair Trading officers are continuing their enquiries,” Ms Webb said.
“I urge consumers to be on high alert, and not to be pressured into accepting work from traders who randomly turn up on your doorstep and intimidate you into agreeing to engage them.”
Consumers should check that a trader holds the relevant licence before engaging them to work on their home.
For more information, and to check a licence for free, visit www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au