Consumer warning - Mr Jayden Stockbridge takes money and runs

NT Consumer Affairs is warning consumers to beware of Mr Jayden Thomas Stockbridge a sole trader trading as Territory Erections (unregistered) and formerly trading as All Angles Landscaping and Above All Landscapes and Garden Maintenance.

Mr Stockbridge was advertising on Facebook Marketplace offering his services, primarily as a fence builder, in the Darwin area. In six cases reported to NT Consumer Affairs, he has taken deposits from consumers but has failed to either commence or complete the work.

In two cases where some work commenced, the work was found to be sub-standard and could not be certified, indicating Mr Stockbridge lacks the level of skill and experience consumers are entitled to expect.

Mr Stockbridge has failed to cooperate with Consumer Affairs and has become uncontactable since he was initially approached with attempts to resolve the complaints.

Mr Stockbridge was full of promises to his customers but when he failed to deliver and they asked for their money back, he made excuses for not taking action, stopped communicating and disappeared.

It appears the Facebook advertising was taken down and Mr Stockbridge has left the Northern Territory after vacating both business and residential premises.

In each of the reported cases, Mr Stockbridge issued written quotes with the highest being around $8,000, which is a significant outlay.

Consumer Affairs recommends that consumers exercise caution when choosing a tradesperson, in particular when responding to advertising via Facebook Marketplace and other social media. Don’t get caught out by the cheap price on offer, get recommendations of local, reputable businesses with proven qualifications and experience and check out their previous work. Consumers should also reduce their risk by not paying too much upfront.

Anyone who has any concerns about their dealings with Jayden Stockbridge or Territory Erections, should contact NT Consumer Affairs on 1800 019 319 or email consumer@nt.gov.au.