Unregistered builder fined - Port Hedland region
Issue Date: - Wednesday, 27 June 2012
Graeme Leslie Moore (67) currently of no fixed address in the Gin Gin area has been convicted in his absence in the Midland Magistrates Court of a building related offence, fined $3,500 and ordered to pay $1,795 in costs.
Mr Moore entered into a building contract whilst not registered and undertook work valued at $116,000 for a community organisation in Roberts Street South Hedland.
"Not being a registered builder, Mr Moore was not entitled to enter into a contract exceeding $20,000 in value," Building Commissioner Peter Gow said.
"Mr Moore failed to attend an arranged interview with us last year and is also known to the former Builders Registration Board for previous offences dating back some years.
"This latest matter dates back to 2008 and at that time Mr Moore committed his offence under the then Builders’ Registration Act.
"The new Building Services (Registration) Act 2011 has since commenced and provides for a maximum penalty of $25,000 for carrying out a regulated building service when not registered," Mr. Gow said.
Using an unregistered builder can result in poor building standards and increased legal risks, such as public liability exposure. For home builders, the project would not be protected by Home Indemnity Insurance should the builder die, disappear or become bankrupt and not able to finish the home.
Fact file:
- Check if a painter, builder or plumber is registered at: www.buildingcommission.wa.gov.au
- Further information email info@buildingcommission.wa.gov.au or telephone 1300 489 099
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