The boss of Queensland building company Stroud Homes has defended asking for money from customers to finish their homes and threatening to sue them over negative reviews. See his responses to our questions.
Glen Norris and Chris Herde 4 min read May 12, 2022 - 2:02PM The Australian Business Network
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The boss of national building company Stroud Homes says his business is solvent amid rising complaints from disgruntled customers about lengthy delays to finish their houses and hefty demands for more money.
James Stroud, who founded the franchised business 11 years ago, said the company was working “hand in glove” to help customers despite a surge in building costs due to Covid-19.
“It’s unfeasible for anyone to build a home for the same price as three years ago,” said Mr Stroud in response to written questions from The Courier-Mail.
“We offered to build homes that fit within their budget, or we’ve given them the option not to proceed with the build and let them out of the contract. We’re not legally obligated to do that – but we think it’s the fair thing to do.”
He said Stroud along with other builders had faced astronomical price rises during the pandemic. “It used to cost us 90 cents to lay a brick, it now costs $3,” he said. “Reinforced steel has gone up 43 per cent and timber has gone up 39 per cent.
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