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CbS
Unlicensed plumbers reported through ‘dob in’ campaign
More than 60 reports have been made to Consumer and Business Services (CBS) as a result of the recent ‘Dob in an unlicensed tradie’ campaign. The majority of reports were about unlicensed builders, but there were 14 reports of unlicensed plumbers, gas fitters and electricians including:
• 4 who were operating without a contractor’s licence
• 6 contractors operating without the correct licence (while they held a plumbers, gas fitters or electrical licence they were installing air conditioners without the appropriate builders licence)
• 1 worker who had failed to renew his registration.
A number of warning letters have been sent and CBS will continue to assess its enforcement option in relation to further conduct, including public assurances, undertakings, public naming, expiation or prosecution.
Existing licensees could also face disciplinary action that may result in suspension or disqualification of their licence. There was insufficient evidence for the remaining three reports.
CBS appreciates the support of industry associations to help promote the campaign, and thanks everyone who responded. The details and evidence provided assisted CBS to investigate each allegation of unlicensed activity.
“The Dob In campaign” put all rogue operators on notice that their days of unlicensed activity are numbered, and also reminded consumers of the importance of engaging a suitably licensed tradesperson for the job.
CBS estimates that the consumer education element of the campaign achieved a total reach of at least 200,000 South Australian consumers through promotional activities, newsletters and social media.
This is now an ongoing campaign, and consumers and industry can report an unlicensed tradesperson anytime online at cbs.sa.gov.au/dob- in or call CBS on 131 882.
This will help to protect consumers from shoddy or even dangerous work, and weed out those who should not be operating in the trades field.
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