fbpx
Monday, May 6, 2024

Fair Trading warns against not-so-magic home builder

An urgent warning has been issued for consumers not to deal with building company Green Magic Homes Australia Pty Ltd, after its contractor licence was cancelled by NSW Fair Trading.

NSW Minister for Fair Trading, Eleni Petinos said Green Magic Homes was no longer able to advertise, contract for, or carry out any residential building work for which a licence is required in NSW and was now no longer lawfully able to contract to do residential building work above $5,000.

“Consumers have paid large sums to Green Magic Homes with their builds yet to be completed, including a customer paying $500,000 for two builds which have had only minor excavations works done to date,” Ms Petinos said.

“Green Magic Homes was found to have contracted to undertake work without appropriate insurance.

“At this point in the investigation, it appears that funds from customers may have been used for personal expenses including travel, groceries, restaurants, liquor stores, gambling, and accommodation.”

The director of the company at the time it was licenced failed to disclose prior convictions for fraud-related offences when applying for a contractor licence in 2021, the Minister said.

“This serves as a warning to any operators attempting to rip off everyday people – you will be caught and met with the full consequences,” she said.

Anyone in NSW who has had problems in their dealings with Green Magic Homes or has information about their operations is urged to contact NSW Fair Trading to lodge a complaint.

Consumers can check if a trader holds the appropriate licence by visiting NSW Fair Tradinglaunch or by calling 13 32 20. Additionally, consumers should always check if a contractor holds the appropriate insurance.

Latest Articles