A ROGUE trader who defrauded several customers in the Warrington area out of thousands of pounds while carrying out building work on their homes has received a suspended prison sentence.
Thomas Turpin, 41, the manager of Merseybuild ltd. of Burman Road, Liverpool, admitted fraud and trading standards offences following an investigation by Warrington Trading Standards.
Turpin falsely claimed that Merseybuild Ltd held membership of numerous trade associations, including Gas Safe, Guild of Master Craftsmen, Federation of Master Builders, Green Deal, and Alcumus Safe Contractor to assure customers that they were a reputable business.
Turpin was contracted to build an extension for a Warrington customer on a rental property she owned in Great Sankey. In the course of carrying out the work, Turpin falsely claimed that the extension had been completed in order to obtain £5,000.
In another incident, a couple from Great Sankey employed Turpin and Merseybuild Ltd to build an extension to their family home costing over £57,000. The work carried out had multiple structural problems resulting in the residents having to hire a different builder to correct the problems, costing an additional £26,000 and causing undue stress to the family.
Warrington Borough Council investigated Turpin and Merseybuild Ltd for trading standards offences and fraud under the Consumer Protection and Business Protection Regulations.
Turpin pleaded guilty to trading standards offences and a fraud offence at Warrington Magistrates Court on 25 January. He then attended Chester Magistrates Court on 23 February and was sentenced to four months imprisonment – suspended for two years, 200 hours community work, and fines of £7,400 with Merseybuild Ltd also fined £22,500.
District Judge Sanders said that Turpin’s actions had “undermined public confidence” and that “the local authority was right to prosecute”.
Cllr Judith Guthrie, cabinet member for environment and public protection said: “Turpin’s behaviour has had a significant impact on the victims, effecting them financially and causing undue stress.
“It is the duty of the trader to truthfully disclose trade association memberships and qualifications, and ensure work is completed to a satisfactory and safe standard.
“The council will not hesitate to pursue action against traders and companies that falsely represent their membership of associations, commit fraud, or contravene trading standards with poor quality work.”
Residents are reminded to always thoroughly research any company or trading business before hiring them to carry out work. This should include checking they are a member of appropriate trading associations and that they hold any required accreditations. The council encourages residents to contact the relevant associations to confirm a company’s membership.
If you’re experiencing an issue as a consumer, you can contact Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133, weekdays 9am-5pm, or you can visit citizensadvice.org.uk for more information.
