Victorians warned for cheap handymen over Christmas season
Home services tradesman Todd Buzza, of Vermont South, is the subject of a public warning by Consumer Affairs Victoria.
The director, Dr Claire Noone, says Buzza is a former bankrupt who advertises cheap building services using several business names: Superfinish Oz Pty Ltd, Superfinish Plaster, Fine Plastering, Buzza Constructions, Buzza Corporation, Smart Bathrooms and All Plastering Services.
She said CAV had received complaints alleging he had taken payment for work he has not done, not completed or carried out to a poor standard.
"Home owners should be wary of handymen advertising cheap or heavily discounted work, providing low quotes or asking you to pay large deposits," Dr Noone said.
In December 2012, Buzza was convicted in Ringwood Magistrates' Court of failing to disclose his bankruptcy to customers after he was prosecuted by the Insolvency and Trustee Service Australia (now known as the Australian Financial Security Authority).
Dr Noone advises home owners thinking of hiring a tradesman to do their own checks, and take specific steps:
- Get at least three quotes on the same detailed description of the job.
- Check the reputation and references of any handyman or tradesperson before hiring them. Search for names, registered business names and an Australian business number (ABN) online, and contact previous clients for references. An established business will be able to provide references.
- Confirm the tradesperson or builder is registered or licensed for the type of work they will be doing.
- Have a written contract for all work – even small jobs – that clearly specifies the work to be done and the total cost. Put any agreed changes in writing.
- Do not pay excessive - or cash - deposits.