A building company director has been handed a two-year suspended prison sentence after leaving multiple clients with incomplete and substandard work, causing them to lose over £72,000 collectively. Kerry Sharland, Director of KS Building & Renovations Limited, was sentenced at Swindon Crown Court on 29th August, following a thorough investigation by Swindon Borough Council’s Trading Standards team.
The 50-year-old admitted to a charge of fraudulent trading under the Companies Act 2006. The case involved four couples who had signed contracts with Sharland for various building projects. The work carried out was not only incomplete but of such poor quality that it resulted in ceilings collapsing in two of the affected homes.
Sharland’s prison sentence was suspended for two years, meaning he will not serve time behind bars unless he breaches the conditions of his suspension. In addition, he was ordered to complete 220 hours of community service and undergo 15 days of rehabilitation. Sharland has also been disqualified from serving as a company director for seven years.
His Honour Judge Taylor, presiding over the case, condemned Sharland’s actions, describing his conduct as “a nightmare” for the homeowners involved. The judge noted that the work was performed so poorly that substantial funds were required to rectify the damage. He further criticised Sharland for causing “stress and misery” to his customers and for repeatedly lying about issuing refunds. The court heard how Sharland delayed works and took money without completing the agreed-upon tasks.
Councillor Jim Grant, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnerships, praised the victims for their courage in coming forward to provide the evidence necessary for this successful prosecution. He remarked: “The pictures of the collapsed ceilings tell you all you need to know about the appalling workmanship that was carried out at these properties. This so-called builder not only performed shoddy work but also took money from innocent people without completing the job.”
Councillor Grant added that he hopes this sentence serves as a warning to rogue traders that the council will take decisive action against those who exploit unsuspecting homeowners. He urged residents to exercise caution when hiring builders, recommending that they seek multiple quotes before proceeding with any work.
Members of the public who wish to report a rogue trader can contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133 or visit the Citizens Advice website.
