Builder jailed after scamming customers out of £200k
Summary
A builder has been jailed after admitting fraudulent trading, having taken more than £200,000 from homeowners while his company was insolvent and delivering only partial or unsafe work. The case involved unfinished extensions, dangerous structural defects, loss of services and significant additional costs for affected homeowners.
Why it matters
Residential property surveyors may encounter properties affected by incomplete or defective domestic building work, where structural safety, serviceability and remedial costs need careful assessment. The case also highlights the importance of due diligence on contractors and the risks associated with insolvency and fraud in residential projects.
Key points
- Seven homeowners lost about £210,000 between 2020 and 2022.
- Victims were left with dangerous structures, no running water and, in one case, raw sewage issues.
- The builder’s company was insolvent while he continued taking payments from the public.
- He pleaded guilty to fraudulent trading and received a prison sentence plus a 15-year director disqualification.
- Some homeowners had to pay substantial extra sums to clear sites and complete unfinished work.
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