Rhys David Goodall was convicted and fined $10,500 in the Cairns Magistrates Court recently for unlicensed building activity dating back to late 2022.
In addition to the fine, Mr Goodall was ordered to pay $1159.40 in compensation to the home owner for incomplete work.
Mr Goodall, who did not appear in court, was charged with carrying out building work without an appropriate licence at a Millaa Millaa property between 17 December 2022 and 20 January 2023.
The offending related to the unlicensed construction of a concrete driveway at the property for $11,154.00.
The QBCC became aware of the offence following a complaint from the home owner in April 2023.
The QBCC determined that the work was not defective, however, further investigations undertaken by the QBCC revealed Mr Goodall did not hold a licence to operate.
In Queensland, individuals and companies carrying out residential building work valued at more than $3,300 must hold an appropriate QBCC licence.
In passing sentence, his Honour Magistrate Johnson stated the offending was serious in nature and that the protection of the community was a key concern. He also added that ensuring quality of building work was paramount.
QBCC CEO and Commissioner, Angelo Lambrinos, said the QBCC is committed to protecting consumers, upholding standards and supporting the building and construction industry and this prosecution outcome highlighted the consequences for individuals who carry out unlicensed building work.
“Unlicensed offending takes work from hard-working licensed individuals and companies who are experienced, qualified and who do the right thing,” Mr Lambrinos said.
“This unlawful activity also exposes home owners to defective and potentially dangerous work that can cost far more to fix than it did to build.
“It also limits their access to the Queensland Home Warranty Scheme – a safety net for home owners when things don’t go to plan.”
Mr Lambrinos said it was important for Queensland home owners to undertake due diligence before entering any building or renovation project.
“Home owners should use the QBCC’s free online tools and resources, including the Home Owner Hub, which guides home owners through the five-stages of building and renovating – from planning to completion. This includes guidance with finding a licenced deposit contractor, deposit limits, contract requirements and the QBCC’s home warranty scheme,” he said.
Meanwhile, the QBCC’s online Licensee Register shows if an individual or company is licensed, the type of work they can do, and a full licence history, including any fines or directions to rectify defective work.
