Deputy Commissioner for Consumer Affairs Dini Soulio is warning consumers about the conduct of the building and renovations company ‘Ezi Home Improvements’ and its Directors Michael Hille and Laura Duce, formerly based at a Greenfields address.
“Consumer and Business Services has recently received a significant number of complaints about deposits paid for work that is incomplete or not even started” said Mr Soulio.
“The company now appears to have ceased trading and is not contactable, however I want to warn the public who may happen to have had dealings with them, that it appears this company has taken large deposits above what is allowable and has failed to honour contracts.
“If you have had dealings with this company I invite you to contact Consumer and Business Services to register your details.
“Consumers entered into contracts with Ezi Home Improvements for packages of work including pergolas, sheds, fencing, paving and other works.
“Most of the complaints CBS is aware of relate to deposits being paid, and then little or no work commencing.
“The company allegedly pressured their customers into paying deposits above what is legally allowable, and, as we understand it, took out no indemnity insurance where required.
“Consumers believed they were entering into contracts with a reputable company, as the paperwork they saw included a Builders’ Licence Number.
“However this number was for Michael Hille’s individual licence and his licence conditions did not extend to the work he contracted his company to do.
“The company itself is not and has never been licensed.
“I remind anyone considering any building work or renovations to be aware of their rights when it comes to dealing with builders and tradespeople.” Mr Soulio said.
Consumers can find information about their rights, and check the Public Register of individual and company licences, at www.cbs.sa.gov.au
Consumers who have had dealings with Ezi Home Improvements are encouraged to call Consumer and Business Services on 131 882, selecting menu option 5.
