A Perth-based tradesman will fork out almost $25,000 in fines and compensation for accepting deposits but failing to do the work at multiple properties.
A Perth-based tree lopper and fencer will fork out almost $25,000 in fines and compensation for accepting deposits but failing to do the work at multiple properties.
Seville Grove tradesman Siuosavaii Sam Maiava pleaded guilty in the Perth Magistrates’ Court, to three charges of wrongfully accepting payment and failing to supply the services in a reasonable time.
The court ordered Mr Maiava to pay a $16,000 fine, $7,400 in compensation to three consumers and $1,211.70 in costs.
Consumer Protection today released a statement over the matter, revealing it was the second time Mr Maiava had been prosecuted for similar offences.
In October 2019, Mr Maiava and his company were fined $3,000 for taking upfront payment for a tree lopping job in Mariginiup but never completed it.
According to Consumer Protection, Mr Maiava collected deposits for tree-lopping and pruning jobs in Middle Swan and Quinns Rocks, revised the initial quotes and demanded more money from the customers.
Mr Maiava then failed to complete the contracted work or return the deposits.
A similar incident occurred at an Armadale property, over work on a Colorbond fence, lattice, and gate, Consumer Protection’s statement reads.
Commissioner for Consumer Protection Trish Blake said she was disappointed Mr Maiava failed to learn his lesson after the initial prosecution in 2019.
“While the majority of tradies do the right thing, the Australian Consumer Law protects consumers from the ones, like Mr Maiava, who don’t,” she said.
“Mr Maiava disregarded the consumer rights of his clients by demanding substantial deposits and failing to do the work, all the while avoiding contact or making up excuses when they tried to follow up.
“We want consumers to know that if a tradesperson increases a quoted price after accepting a deposit and before providing the service, they are entitled to a full refund and are under no obligation to proceed.”
Ms Blake said small deposits, of about 10 per cent, were encouraged to avoid being left high and dry if a tradie failed to do the job.
“For bigger jobs, try to agree on payments as the work gets done, so you’re not paying for everything upfront,” she said.
“For added security, consider paying by credit card, which offers the advantage of a chargeback if the goods or services aren’t provided as agreed.”
