Bankrupt Pool Installer Richard Lascelles Faces Growing Complaints

The activities of Richard Lascelles, an undischarged bankrupt pool installer in New Zealand, have raised alarms as complaints against him continue to mount. Despite receiving at least three tips from concerned citizens, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has yet to take action regarding his ongoing operations.

Reports indicate that Lascelles has continued to operate his pool installation business, leading to dissatisfaction among clients. Complaints include issues such as unfinished projects, poor workmanship, and failure to deliver promised services. These concerns have been reported to the Ministry, but as of now, no formal steps have been initiated to address the situation.

Background on Richard Lascelles

Richard Lascelles has a history that complicates his current business activities. Being classified as an undischarged bankrupt means he is legally restricted from engaging in certain business practices without disclosing his financial status. This raises significant questions about his ability to conduct business transparently and ethically.

Despite these legal limitations, Lascelles has persisted in taking on new clients. Some homeowners have expressed frustration over the lack of accountability in their dealings with him. One client reported spending over $30,000 on a pool installation that remains incomplete months after the initial agreement.

Government Response and Public Concerns

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has received multiple notifications about Lascelles’ business practices, yet it has not taken any visible action. According to a ministry spokesperson, investigations can be a complex process, especially when it involves bankrupt individuals attempting to operate businesses.

Public sentiment is growing increasingly critical of the lack of intervention. Many feel that the ministry’s inaction sends a troubling message about consumer protection in New Zealand. The local community is calling for clearer regulations to ensure that businesses operated by undischarged bankrupts are monitored closely to protect consumers from potential fraud.

As complaints continue to accumulate, the question of accountability looms large. Without timely action from authorities, clients may find themselves vulnerable to the risks associated with hiring individuals who are not legally permitted to engage in business activities.

In the coming weeks, it will be crucial to see if the Ministry responds to the mounting pressure from the public and takes the necessary steps to investigate Richard Lascelles and his operations further. The outcome could have significant implications for consumer protection laws and the integrity of the pool installation industry in New Zealand.