Unlicensed builder convicted and fined $8,000 for illegal building work in Queensland

Overview

Ricky Aden Potter was convicted and fined $8,000 in Maroochydore Magistrates Court for carrying out building work without a Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) licence. Potter was also ordered to pay compensation to the homeowner.

Details of the offence

The building work involved installing a retaining wall, fence, landscaping, and drainage at a property in Sippy Down. The work was carried out between April and October 2023.

Licence checking

The QBCC licence register at qbcc.qld.gov.au allows anyone to check a tradie's licence status and compliance history before hiring. This applies to homeowners and subcontractors vetting other tradies.

Digital Licence app

QBCC-licensed tradies are able to add their QBCC licence to the Queensland Government Digital Licence app. More than 13,000 licences have been added since the app launched on 30 September 2025.

Home Warranty Scheme

Residential construction work in Queensland valued over $3,300 is required to be covered under the QBCC Home Warranty Scheme (QHWS). Cover is mandatory for eligible work above that threshold.

Home Owner Hub

The QBCC Home Owner Hub at qbcc.qld.gov.au provides a free five-step guide on building and renovating. The guide includes information on maximum deposits, contract requirements, and warranty protections.

This is a plain-English summary for information only, not legal or compliance advice. Always check the official source or consult a qualified professional.