South Australia’s Consumer and Business Services (CBS) has issued a warning to the community that ‘Bitumen bandits’ are back on the prowl across the State again with new reports being made to the consumer watchdog.
According to CBS, the fresh warning of the ‘dodgy dealers’ prompts a need to be on the lookout for them.
“Consumer and Business Services is working with State and Federal Agencies including the South Australian Police and Border Force to identify bitumen bandits and gather evidence of their offences,” CBS said.
“Regulators throughout Australia share information in relation to bitumen bandits to assist in catching them early as they move from one state to another,” it said.
“Consumer and Business Services has recently received 12 complaints from consumers who have been approached by these unscrupulous operators, with reports received from Stirling North, Mallala, Athelstone, Renmark, Murray Bridge, Ceduna, Dry Creek, Mile End, Melrose Park, North Plympton, St Marys and Lonsdale.
“Bitumen bandits are roaming, unlicensed traders who travel from town to town targeting both homes and businesses, claiming to have leftover bitumen from a previous job and offering to do cheap work,” the CBS said.
“However, the work is substandard and often leaves consumers out of pocket as they struggle with the cost of remedial work to fix the mess they are left with,” it said.
“Anyone who has encountered these individuals are encouraged to contact Consumer and Business Services on 131 882 or at www.cbs.sa.gov.au.
“Contact us as quickly as possible” CBS said.
