As cyclones, storm surges and flooding affect large parts of Queensland leaving many homes and other buildings damaged consumers are being warned to be wary of dodgy door to door traders offering to do repair work.
Attorney General and Minister for Justice Shannon Fentiman said whether it is roof, property or home contents damage, the aftermath of severe weather can be devastating to property owners and dodgy door-to-door traders capitalise on that stress and those who need help with storm clean-up and repairs.
"The Office of Fair Trading is warning consumers to avoid door to door traders offering on-the-spot cheap driveway repairs, tree removal services or housing and roof repairs," Minister Fentiman said.
"Warning signals to look out for are 'today only' cheap deals, demands for up-front payment or offers to drive you to the bank to get money to pay for the job. They will often pressure you to accept their offer and make it seem like they are doing you a favour.
"When the federal or state government declares a disaster situation for an area, door-to-door traders can waive the usual 10 business day cooling-off period to start on emergency repairs.
"However, this is only in situations where there is a hazard or risk to people or property if the repairs do not go ahead and even in this case door-to-door traders are not permitted to accept payment on the spot.
