Four people suspected of unlicensed contracting are subject to investigations, after more than 50 Sunshine Coast construction sites were inspected by the state’s building regulator.
The licences of 105 people were checked by Queensland Building and Construction Commission officers, as part of an ongoing campaign to stamp out unlicensed, illegal and defective work around the state.
QBCC commissioner Anissa Levy said another individual was suspected of hiring an unlicensed worker. Officers also detected a further 17 offences relating to non-compliant signage.
“The four people suspected of performing unlicensed work and the builder suspected of engaging an unlicensed worker are now subject to further investigations, which could result in prosecution,” she said.
“Those with non-compliant signage will receive warnings, however if our investigations reveal any repeat offenders our regulatory action will be more rigorous.”
While the QBCC’s ongoing audit campaign revealed most contractors were doing the right thing at building sites, Ms Levy said it was important to catch those who think they can flout the law.
“Ultimately, it is about making sure building work is done appropriately to help protect property owners and workers from financial risks or defective building work,” she said.
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“These audits also ensure there is an equitable environment for our licensees by identifying and penalising unlawful operators.”
Ms Levy said the audits also provided an opportunity for officers to engage with licensees and property owners to raise awareness of topical issues, and provide them with advice on their rights and responsibilities, and information about the role of the QBCC.
“These positive interactions with industry and our consumers help us build strong relationships, which in turn helps foster a culture of compliance and safer construction practices,” she said.
In the 2023-2024 financial year, QBCC officers conducted 1134 building site audits around the state, which resulted in 4681 licence audits.
Of these, 29 were identified as unlicensed contractors.
An individual or company caught working without a licence can be issued with fines of up to $3226 or prosecuted in court.
Repeat offending can lead to imprisonment for up to a year.
The QBCC website provides free information to help home and property owners find a qualified, licensed local contractor.
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