July 19, 2023
Police have warned that the so-called “bitumen bandits” are back in Queensland.
These shonky “tradesmen” target vulnerable residents, particularly senior citizens, through door-to-door approaches.
As well as bitumen work they offer seemingly affordable home maintenance services, including roof cleaning, roof maintenance and general repairs.
“These people operate by intimidating residents to coerce them into accepting their services and then demand payment for sub-par or even non-existent work,” a police spokesperson said.
“Consequently, many homeowners find themselves burdened with additional costs to fix the poorly completed tasks.
“Be cautious of placards on poles or trees advertising these services, as they may appear unprofessional or simplistic.
“When contacting the numbers listed on these advertisements, exercise extra caution as they may not represent legitimate and skilled tradespeople.
“Fortunately, licensed builders are mandated to carry their credentials while working, offering a means for residents to verify their authenticity. Always insist on seeing their identification before engaging with any service providers.
“To safeguard against potential problems, police strongly advise homeowners to exclusively deal with reputable trades companies or individuals.
“Choosing reliable professionals will not only provide peace of mind but also ensure that the job is done correctly the first time, saving homeowners from unnecessary stress and expenses in the future.”
