The Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety’s Consumer Protection branch is urging home owners to choose their tree-loppers carefully following reports of unscrupulous operators in Perth.
Commissioner for Consumer Protection, Lanie Chopping said that during the 2019-2020 financial year, Consumer Protection received 56 enquiries and 18 complaints about tree-loppers, mostly related to poor or incomplete work, damage to property and unsolicited services.
“Consumer Protection has recently prosecuted rogue tree-loppers for breaches of the Australian Consumer Law, including disregard for cooling-off periods and undue harassment in connection with payment for services,” Ms Chopping said.
“WA’s electrical safety regulator, Building and Energy, has also raised concerns about some tree-loppers operating in the ‘danger zone’ near power lines without the required certification,” she said.
“Consumer Protection has successfully prosecuted rogue tree-loppers, but some may fly under the radar by using different business names.”
Ms Chopping encouraged home owners to be cautious about responding to letterbox leaflets, advertisements and door-knockers without first doing some checks on the business.
“There are some excellent tree-lopping services, but beware of rogue operators who may rip you off by taking your money and not completing the job,” she said.
“They may offer discounts and attractive prices, but this could turn out to be more expensive in the long run.”
She said people should get a number of quotes for the work they were interested in having done; search for online reviews; and check that the tree-lopper had a valid ABN or ACN.
Ms Chopping said the person should be able to show their insurance coverage for any damage and, if working near power lines, a Building and Energy vegetation code of practice certificate.
“Also be aware of your consumer rights,” she said.
“If you have invited a tradesperson just to provide a quote and not to do work, you are entitled to a cooling-off period; this means you can cancel the contract with no penalty if you change your mind,” Ms Chopping said.
