Cowboys targeting leaky home owners

Home owners, local authorities and the government are being warned by the federation to take special care to avoid overblown estimates of the extent of problems and costs associated with the repair of residential structures which have leaks identified.

The warning comes after increasing cases within the building industry of excessive repair work being recommended at costs far beyond that which should be considered reasonable.

"This is an area ripe for hit-and-run cowboy activities," says chief executive Bruce Kohn, especially since the announcement last week that home owners will have to foot almost two thirds of the repair bill.

"Many unfortunate home owners who have identified a leak in the properties are elderly, young or have little expert knowledge. They are reliant on sound advice from experts and need to ensure that those they turn to are well qualified for the task and have a proven track record."