In the Elizabeth Magistrates Court, 29-year-old Francesco Joseph Falco of Salisbury North was found guilty of breaches of the Building Work Contractor's Act 1995.

The court was told Falco contracted to supply and install substantial cabinetry work, and a complete kitchen while he wasn't licensed. He additionally sought payment above the legal limit which was unauthorised under the legislation.

The consumers reported having to hire other tradespeople to complete Falco's unfinished and substandard work.

"Building work should only be done by those with the necessary skills, experience and qualifications and that's why we have a licensing regime in place, to protect consumers from tradespeople who don't do the right thing," Commissioner for Consumer Affairs Dini Soulio said.

"In this case, consumers were left considerably out of pocket, then they paid thousands of dollars for work which they later reported as being incomplete and unsatisfactory.

"Clearly this is unacceptable conduct, and this decision should remind those who seek to break the rules that there are penalties in place."

To check whether a contractor is licensed, report a tradesperson or seek advice contact Consumer and Business Services on 131 882.