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Rogue Qld builders fined $27k over unlawful work
Two Queensland builders have been convicted and fined a total of $27,000 in separate cases of unlawful building work, as the state’s watchdog continues its bid to protect home owners.
The Queensland Building and Plumbing Commission (QBCC) has secured convictions against two individuals for offences relating to illegal work in two separate cases.
Christian Gett and Jorge Antonio Lopez Vaquero both pleaded guilty to unlawful building work, commencing work without a compliant regulated contract, and demanding and receiving an excessive deposit.
Gett, who did not appear in court, was fined $14,000 for three offences and was ordered to pay $5,169.50 in compensation to the home owner of an Oremaue property for work relating to the construction of a fence in 2022.
Vaquero, who appeared in court, was fined $13,000 after being charged with two offences related to deck work at a Forestdale home, and an additional three offences in relation to the construction of a fence at a Marsden property.
He was also ordered to pay the Marsden home owner $2,697 in compensation.
QBCC CEO and commissioner, Angelo Lambrinos, said the outcomes highlighted the serious consequences facing individuals who choose to operate outside the law.
Lambrinos said the QBCC was committed to protecting consumers and helping licensees maintain high standards within the industry.
“A thriving building and construction industry benefits us all. But it only works when people feel informed, enabled and protected.”
“That’s why we will unapologetically enforce the law where someone knowingly or repeatedly does the wrong thing.”
Lambrinos said QBCC audits in 2025 showed a non-compliance rate of less than 1 per cent, but noted even one case of deliberate or repeat non-compliance was too many.
“Protecting the integrity of the industry takes a united effort and reporting concerns helps protect home owners and the reputations of hard-working, honest licensees.”
“When something feels or is wrong, tell us – your information helps us take decisive action against unlawful operators who undermine trust and fairness.”
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