A Sydney builder has been hit with a $473,000 fine for more than 40 offences relating to uninsured work, unlicensed jobs and excessive deposits.  

A Building Commission NSW investigation found Anthony Abi-Merhi unlawfully operated without required documentation or consumer securities.  

He was found guilty of 27 charges of demanding or receiving payment for work without having Home Building Compensation Fund insurance.  

NSW law requires builders’ warranty insurance for projects valued at more than $20,000.

Contractors must also obtain licences for all construction, repairs, renovations or decorating work valued at more than $5000. 

Mr Abi-Merhi, a sole trader operating under the name Triscapes, quoted one customer $99,500 for a job that eventually cost them $142,000. 

NSW Building Minister Anoulack Chanthivong says the fine shows the government is “serious about eradicating cowboys and shonks from the NSW home construction industry.

“Building Commission NSW inspectors are now out in force and will come down hard on those caught doing the wrong thing.”  

Mr Chanthivong says customers should engage with contractors only after researching their credentials. He recommends using the Verify Licence website and Fair Trading’s contract checklist.