LKS Lifestyle Solutions, trading as Advance Pools and Spas, must also compensate at least two former customers after they launched proceedings in the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, which concluded last year.

Consumer Affairs Victoria took action against company director Lauren Kate Smith after receiving numerous complaints against Advance Pools and Spas, which was based on Powell Street.

Smith appeared in the Bendigo Magistrates’ Court on Monday charged with taking payment without supplying goods.

LKS Lifestyle Solutions was found to have entered into a contract for a pool worth more than $65,000 without having a director that was a registered builder.

The business also did not provide their client with a copy of the building contract.

Smith was convicted and fined $5000, while the business was fined $10,000.

The fines will not have to be paid for two years so the affected consumers can receive the money they are owed first.

On October 22 last year, the business was ordered to repay one former customer $16,446 for an underground pool purchased in November 2014. Some items were delivered, but the pool was never installed.

A spokesperson for Consumer Affairs Victoria said people should always take action early when disputes arise.

“When disputes occur, we recommend that consumers first try to resolve the dispute directly with the builder,” the spokesperson said.

“Seek advice immediately and follow up on that advice as soon as possible. Taking action early is likely to prevent the dispute from escalating or further issues emerging.

“We recommend you have a written contract for all building works, regardless of size and price.”