A BUILDER who charged for work that he didn’t carry out has been prosecuted by the Isle of Man Office of Fair Trading.

The builder, who has not been named, is said to have caused a number of problems in the Island over recent years.

He pleaded guilty to offences under the Consumer Protection (Trade Descriptions) Act of 1970 of knowingly making false or misleading statements as to services.

The Office of Fair Trading has revealed the builder received a substantial fine and was ordered to pay prosecution costs in full.

He has also signed a written assurance under the Fair Trading Act of 1996 that he will trade fairly from now on.

Should he breach this the Attorney General will be requested by the Office of Fair Trading to bring proceedings against him in the High Court which could lead to a further fine and or a term of imprisonment.

The Office of Fair Trading says it is currently investigating the activities of a number of "cowboy builders" who are operating in the Isle of Man and says it will not hesitate to take similar action to prevent them taking advantage of consumers.

Paul Gelling, the chief officer of the Office of Fair Trading, said: "This successful prosecution highlights the work being undertaken by the OFT to rid the Island of 'cowboy builders' who prey on consumers - particularly the more vulnerable members of society.

"These characters are not lovable rogues. They are criminals who fleece trusting homeowners out of thousands of pounds. 

"I am obviously pleased with the result of the prosecution but would add that the Office of Fair Trading is not working alone as enforcement agencies across government are working together to curtail the activities of these rogue tradesmen."

Anyone with concerns about a builder should contact the Office of Fair Trading on 01624 686500. There is also advice on selecting the right builder available by visiting www.gov.im/oft.