THREE companies associated with Inverell builder Neal Bannister have been placed in the hands of an administrator, Fair Trading Minister Linda Burney announced yesterday.

Mr Bannister was responsible for seven houses in the Glen Innes district, and had at least five local men as sub-contractors.

The three companies Bantech Constructions Pty Ltd, Northtek Developments Pty Ltd and Bannister Corp Pty Ltd were now in the hands of administrator Alan Hayes of PPB Pty Ltd.

The office of Fair Trading had first been notified of concerns from homeowners and suppliers by the Examiner last week.

Ms Burney said consumers should lodge insurance claims with Calliden Insurance on (03) 8878 3804.

“As the administrator is now in control of the group, consumers may be asked by the administrator to make payments under the terms of the contract,” she said.

“Consumers should review the amount and number of progress payments that may now be requested to ensure payments correlate with the amount of work undertaken,” Ms Burney said.

She said any subcontractor or supplier who believes they are owed money by the companies should lodge a proof of debt, along with supporting documentation, to the administrator, who can be contacted on (02) 8116 3000.