An unqualified plumber from the western suburbs has continued to do plumbing work despite having his registration suspended in February.

Mr Stavros Giorginis was found guilty in February 2012 of performing potentially dangerous work in breach of his registration, and was at that time suspended and fined.

Commissioner for Consumer Affairs Mr Paul White said, “Early this week Consumer and Business Services had another complaint brought against Mr Giorginis.

“He has undertaken a plumbing job at a Kurralta Park house, working with his son. Neither of them is a registered plumber, nor holds an appropriate contracting licence.

“The property owner’s son became concerned at the work being done and rightly contacted Consumer and Business Services.

“For the work on the Kurralta Park house they took an $11,000 deposit, and even drove the property owner to the bank in order to receive it as cash. There was no written quotation.

“They breached the Plumbers Gas Fitters and Electricians Act on many counts, and this represents a serious betrayal of public trust.” said Mr White.

“I encourage all consumers to report poor quality and unlicensed work to CBS, so that we can get these characters off the street.”

“Consumers subject to work by unqualified, unregistered workers are invariably left unfairly out of pocket with poor quality work that may require extensive repair. In most cases consumers do not receive a refund or remedy.

“Consumers can protect themselves by checking a trader’s licence card, or the licensed contractors’ register on the CBS website.” Mr White said.

To report concerns about suspected unlicensed traders, or to lodge a complaint, contact CBS on 131 882 or visit www.cbs.sa.gov.au