Sunday Tribune

We were duped in home improvemen­t scam – customers

- SIBONISO MNGADI siboniso.mngadi@inl.co.za

SOME customers of a Durban-based high-end interior design company, North Coast Interiors, have lodged criminal charges and accused the company of being “scam artists” for collecting cash but not delivering on their promises.

Customers shared their complaints with Sunday Tribune, including some who have lodged charges against the owner, Keethan Singh.

The dissatisfi­ed customers said they paid more than R50000 each, as deposits, but the required work was allegedly not completed.

Vigeon Govender, a customer from Bluff, said he paid a R50000 deposit for ceiling renovation­s and floor work in October.

But Singh’s company allegedly did 10% of the work and never came back, according to Govender.

On Singh’s Facebook page, which has since been taken down, pictures show he and his family lived in the lap of luxury, with fancy cars and a home on a luxury estate in Ballito, were posted, Govender noticed.

Govender opened a case in March and the matter was expected to be back in court this week.

Captain Nqobile Gwala, the SAPS’ spokespers­on, confirmed that a case of fraud was under investigat­ion.

“It is alleged by the complainan­t that on March 16, he was defrauded by the suspect.

“A 24-year-old suspect was placed under arrest for fraud.

“He last appeared before the Wentworth Magistrate’s Court on April 14,” said Gwala.

Another victim was a Pinetown resident, who asked not to be named.

She paid a R52000 deposit in January after receiving a R90000 quote from Singh to install a new kitchen, including electrical appliances.

She said Singh removed her old kitchen scheme and demolished some walls in preparatio­n for the new kitchen.

“He takes the money for a deposit, pretends to be committed to the project goals, and starts minor works in earnest.

“He then makes excuses until he completely stops visiting the site.”

When approached for comment, Singh admitted that he owned the business, but dropped the call and switched off his phone when the Sunday Tribune questioned him further.

 ??  ?? SOME customers of a Durban-based interior decorator claimed they have not received what they paid for, but all they get is the run-around.
SOME customers of a Durban-based interior decorator claimed they have not received what they paid for, but all they get is the run-around.

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