Kota Kinabalu: The Consumer Claims Tribunal has ordered a company to pay RM15,000 in compensation to a homeowner for failing to complete the installation of doors and windows.
Tribunal President Salmi Zalinah Abdul Rahim issued the ruling after reviewing statements, WhatsApp messages, and photographic evidence submitted by both parties.
She found that the respondent’s failure to complete the installation had caused significant inconvenience and financial losses to the claimant.
According to case details, the claimant, Raine Mastul, had hired the respondent, Kahirol Fridick, who operates under Sri Gudang Alukaca Sdn Bhd, to supply and install doors and windows at their home in Kampung Luagan, Beaufort.
The claimant made a total payment of RM17,804 to the respondent through multiple transactions between June and September 2023.
Despite receiving full payment, the respondent only managed to install the doors, but the work was unsatisfactory, and the window installation was left incomplete.
As a result, the claimant’s home was left exposed to wild animals such as birds, insects, and stray dogs, causing damage to household items. The claimant was then forced to hire another contractor to complete the installation and repair the damage.
During the hearing, the tribunal reviewed evidence, including WhatsApp messages and photographs, which showed the condition of the claimant’s home.
Salmi cited Section 53 of the Consumer Protection Act 1999, which states that any service provided to a consumer carries an implied guarantee that it will be performed with reasonable care and skill. Section 54(1) of the Act further guarantees that the service should meet the quality and purpose expected by the consumer.
“Furthermore, in Section 60(1)(a)(ii) of the Act, the claimant has the right to seek redress against the respondent for the failure of any service or any resulting outcome of that service.
“In this case, the claimant relied on the skills and judgment of the service provider—the respondent—to supply and install doors and windows in their home,” Salmi said.
She also acknowledged the work done by the respondent, as shown in submitted photographs, but noted that the damage and losses suffered by the claimant outweighed the incomplete service provided.
The tribunal then ordered the respondent to pay RM15,000 in compensation within 14 days.
