interesting outcome with VCAT involving Custom Edge Homes. Full judgement at https://www.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/viewdoc/au/cases/vic/VCAT/2023/1280.html

We entered into a building contract for our beautiful Edwardian home with DeBono Style Homes, trading as Smith and Sons Extensions and Renovations Essendon in 2016. Smith and Sons Melbourne was (and continues to be) the state master franchisee with whom we raised many of our concerns with but we were given lip service only. We had to move out during the works and we have not returned home yet. It was a horrific experience. DeBono Style Homes demanded monies up front when he was not legally entitled to, they did not want to pay for the contract works insurance as per the contract, the company hit the sewer during the demolition phase, they did not comply with the engineering design, did not comply with formal written directions to fix per the Relevant Building Surveyor, and they got very annoyed when we first involved the lawyers, stating "you shouldn't have spent money on lawyers,.....you should have spent it on the house". The builder walked off the job and our experts found very bad workmanship, defects, the house is sinking and cracking. VCAT is underway. The builder made a poor offer to settle in early 2018, stating " you had better take my offer becuase VCAT will take a long time". On that he has been unfortunately correct. Unethical, unprofessional, tending to blame the homeowner for his lack of organisational abilities. The executive and master franchisee of Smith & Sons, including Smith & Sons Melbourne were unhelpful. Caveat emptor.

Delays from the get go. Did not start on time, said the job would take 2 days but instead went for over a week. Our biggest mistake was not being on site as we were 20 minutes drive away and in our absence, the fencer and his team used our back yard as a rubbish dump, with their empty cans of drink and coffee cups strewn everywhere. Then also used our property to dump chunks of freshly cut metal, which, given the wide area where they were found, they must have decided to simply throw pieces everywhere without any consideration. During the works a sentimental statue had its head broken off but the builder and his team denied responsibility. Piles of dried ready made concrete around the back yard. Required frequent reminders about the rubbish when he claimed the work was complete. Lackadaisical approach to clearing out their rubbish, which took many days. It conveys the impression that he doesn't supervise the work of his team and doesn't demonstrate diligence in ensuring rubbish is cleaned up. I would have to wonder if he demonstrates the same approach to the fencing. Can't tolerate feedback. When confronted by my wife about the damaged statue, he swore at her. Refused to apologise until it was a case of too little, too late, and insincere at that. Caveat emptor.

Phil and his crew did a splendid job with our heavy antique furniture and other household heavy items on the big day. We've moved out to rent whilst our home is undergoing extensive renovations and extensions. He knew the care to take with our antiques, reinstalled and levelled the washing machine at the other end, and other assistance which made our transition easier. Without a fault. A very big day with a full truck. Will definitely be hiring De Angelis Removals again for the return trip in a year.

Approximate cost: $700

I emailed them after our dishwasher gave up the ghost. No reply email after 3 business days, so used the phone to make an appointment. They said they couldn't find the email we sent. Then two days later someone else from the company leaves a number of messages on my mobile responding to my email. The person we spoke to at that time didn't know that we had already telephoned. Seems like the left hand doesn't know what the right hand is up to.
They identified the dishwasher problem as being the water pump, which could be replaced. They said that they could get the part within a week, and took our dishwasher away. Well, it took over two weeks. They claimed they were waiting for the part from overseas. Total cost $400 plus two call outs of $50 each. On the positive, they also fixed the soap dispenser at no extra charge, although it's a little temperamental.

Approximate cost: $500

best ever potato cakes, fish, chips. Haven't tried their burgers. Their battered fish is thick and huge. The chips are perfectly fried, as are the potato cakes. Amazing to find such a place in a small country town. Very reasonably priced too!

very good and helpful service, and remarkably good value for money compared to other vets in the area. They also have 'puppy school' lessons which is an interesting time for all. They also sell a variety of pet related products.

annual tax return. Sant is very efficient and knows his stuff. We have seen him for 3 years now and have always been pleased with his service. If he leaves, we will probably try to track him down to continue using his services. Always polite and professional. Our tax return cheque also arrives fairly quickly to boot.

Approximate cost: $100

wife took the kids there, and was extremely happy with the service and price. To boot, a specialist orthodontic surgeon expressed glowing comments when told that our kids were seeing Dr McMahon. Also, his prices lower than the average!