Warning About Tradie Who Owes Nearly $79,000

Consumer Protection is investigating complaints about a Byford tradesperson who has taken $78,715 in upfront deposits without commencing the work or providing refunds.

  • Byford tradie takes $78,715 from WA homeowners, work undelivered
  • 11 complaints against Allan Jason Dean Howard, primarily in March 2025
  • Failed to deliver plastering, decking and a garage renovation after taking deposits

Consumer Protection is investigating complaints about a Byford tradesperson who has taken $78,715 in upfront deposits without commencing the work or providing refunds.

Allan Jason Dean Howard, trading as Allan's Plastering, is the subject of 11 complaints to Consumer Protection since July 2023 for the alleged non-delivery of various trade services, including plastering, rendering, roof plumbing, decking and a garage renovation, after payment was made. Most complaints were lodged in March 2025.

Going by 'JD Howard', the tradesman is understood to have solicited business from consumers who had placed advertisements on online trade-seeking platforms and social media groups. Deposits paid to Mr Howard range from $1,456 to as high as $21,000. Mr Howard is also understood to have requested payment of deposits as high as 50 per cent, when the maximum deposit allowed for home building works valued at over $7,500 is 6.5 per cent of the total price before work commences.

Commissioner for Consumer Protection Trish Blake said Mr Howard was likely breaching the Australian Consumer Protection Law by accepting deposits and failing to deliver goods or services within a reasonable timeframe.

"In light of the recent influx of complaints, we believe Mr Howard's business practices pose an ongoing danger to consumers who may engage his services," Ms Blake said.

"Despite our repeated efforts to reach Mr Howard and seek remedies for his customers, he remains unresponsive.

"To prevent further financial loss, we strongly advise consumers to avoid dealing with Mr Howard and consider seeking alternative service providers.

"Recommendations from people you know are great for finding tradies - see who your neighbours, friends and family have used."

When hiring tradespeople, consumers are cautioned against paying large deposits. For larger projects, progress payments tied to completed work phases and material supply are recommended, and required by law if the total cost is over $7,500. If the home building works are valued at more than $7,500, then consumers can only be required to pay a deposit of 6.5 per cent or less before work commences.

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