The Building and Plumbing Commission (BPC) has executed search warrants at three sites linked to unregistered building company Homespace Builds Pty Ltd.
BPC investigators, accompanied by Victoria Police and digital forensic experts, raided premises and vehicles at Aintree, Bacchus Marsh, and Darley.
According to the BPC, the raids relate to multiple alleged offences under the Building Act and the Domestic Building Contracts Act (DBCA) uncovered during a complex proactive investigation over many months.
Homespace Builds is being investigated over a range of alleged offences including unregistered work, entering into major domestic building contracts when not registered to do so, and making false and misleading statements.
The BPC has also used intelligence from a previous raid to identify Homespace as an alleged participant in paying for the use of another company’s registration.
Its investigations team will refer any potential contraventions of the DBCA to Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) for its consideration and action.
Legislative reforms to the DBCA, which have been introduced to parliament, will transfer these powers from CAV to the BPC.
The BPC is warning consumers not to employ Homespace Builds Pty Ltd while an investigation into its conduct continues.
Consumers should always use a registered builder and a licensed or registered plumber.
You can check if your builder and plumber are registered on the BPC’s website, and those who know of an unregistered builder or plumber are encouraged to make a report online.
