Solar trader penalised for unlicensed work

Roselands trader Xiaoke (aka David) Li — trading as Solar Island Energy (now deregistered) and also Rosh Home Technology — was ordered to pay $8406 in fines and professional costs for contracting and coordinating unlicensed specialist work.

Through the two companies, Li had allegedly made representations he could supply and install solar panel systems for hot water and electricity, the court heard.

For almost two years from December 2012 to June 2014, the trader allegedly procured solar installation work from customers in the Roselands and Mt Pritchard areas — either carrying out the unlicensed work himself or coordinating third-party installers to do it.

NSW Fair Trading Commissioner Rod Stowe reminded consumers to check that traders are appropriately qualified and licenced before agreeing to work or making any payments.

“Reputable traders should be able to provide new customers with referees and contact details of previous clients so they can check on the trader’s past performance,” he said.

For more information or to check a trader’s licence is valid, visit the NSW Fair Trading website: www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au.