A Perth family has warned homeowners about the importance of research after a botched renovation left them with a damaged house and a massive clean-up bill.
Tamara Van Kerkof and Jason Williamson had been waiting years to be able to afford a renovation on their modest Perth hills home.
But that dream turned into a nightmare after employing patio builder Ross Newbold from Alfresco Living WA.
When the couple employed Mr Newbold early last year they agreed to his quote of $44,000 which included an alfresco area, re-roofing the kids playroom, and a patio.
A deposit was paid and work began.
Mr Williamson says it became clear Mr Newbold was dodgy when he asked to see a copy of the council building permits.