An unlicensed landscaper has angered clients who claim they are waiting to start work on their property despite paying large deposits a year in advance.
Adelaide-based 111 Earthworks and Landscapes was suspended last Thursday by builder operating company Joshua Jones.
A disabled war veteran on pension and a new mother with a baby are among customers who claim they are waiting to start work on their project despite paying deposits 12 months in advance.
Other customers claimed they were frustrated by Mr Jones’ company’s ‘inadequate’ work and were forced to hire other contractors.
Ellis paid $14,500 to Mack 111 Earthworks and Landscape for fencing work that was not completed. The landscaping firm has now been placed in liquidation
A retired pensioner, Margaret Hodson, hired 111 Earthworks and Landscape to work around her swimming pool and put up a fence in her front yard. Fencing has never been done. In the picture, Mr. Jones’ digger works next to Mrs. Hodgson’s swimming pool
Adelaide-based 111 Earthworks and Landscapes, was suspended by unlicensed builder Joshua Jones last Thursday. Image, previous work by his company
News.com.au reported that in one case a young mother, Alice Mack, paid $14,500 to 111 Earthworks and Landscape for fencing work that had not started, news.com.au reported.
The mother was under tremendous stress as she underwent six miscarriages and four rounds of IVF before finally giving birth.
Lost money and possible legal action was the last thing he needed.
‘Instead of cherishing my long-awaited pregnancy, I felt the pressure of losing a huge amount of money at a time when it was desperately needed,’ said Mrs Mack.
In another example, Margaret Hodson, 63, a disability pensioner left $9,500 out of pocket while waiting for a fence to be built around her front yard.
‘We thought he was a straightforward guy,’ said Mrs Hodson.
Ms Hodgson also hired Mr Jones to level the ground around her swimming pool.
Acting SA Consumer Affairs Commissioner Fraser W Stroud said the government watchdog had received several complaints about the practices of Mr Jones’ company.
Acting Consumer Affairs Commissioner Fraser W Stroud said in a statement, ‘These are often substantial payments for work that has either never been started or will require significant remedial work.’
In another example, Margaret Hodson, 63, a disability pensioner left $9500 out of pocket while waiting for a fence to be built around her front yard.
Acting SA Consumer Affairs Commissioner Fraser W Stroud said the government watchdog had received several complaints about the practices of Mr Jones’ company. Image, previous work by his company
‘One concern is that this person does not have a valid builder’s licence,’ he said.
‘Based on the information we have received to date, I believe it is only appropriate to issue a public warning, as our investigation into this trader continues.’
No lawsuits are pending against Mr. Jones or his company.
The liquidator appointed to sell the assets of 111 Earthworks and Landscapes is Mark Liberange of Hard Phillips Liberange.
Trading conditions have been notoriously difficult for businesses in the building industry across Australia over the past two years, with an average of two companies going bust every day in that industry.
South Australia’s Consumer and Business Services revealed Mr Jones was unlicensed after issuing a warning about landscapers in early July.
‘I cannot stress enough the importance of register checking that the person you are working with is licensed for the work you are considering employing them,’ said Mr Stroud.
‘I would also urge any consumers who have dealt with this person who have not already contacted us to do so on 131 882.’
Daily Mail Australia has contacted 111 Earthworks and Landscapes for comment.