Austin thought he was being sensible and avoiding scammy contractors when storms hit his area and his roof needed replacing. He turned down one contractor who just didn’t look professional, but the contractor he ultimately chose screwed him over while looking nice and professional. He paid for a roof replacement back in September, but the company stil hasn’t showed up at his house. He’s run through all of his legal options and filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau, and now doesn’t know where else to turn.

I’ve been hit by scamming contractors. After storms in my area earlier this year, we had teams of roofing contractors canvassing the neighborhood. I turned down one team, for lack of professional appearance. Turns out the professional “looking” roofing company was the one that would turn out to be the thorn in my side.

A sales trainee that left the company gave me a heads up to the situation in October, a good month after I had made payment to have my roof replaced. Since his notification, I’ve been trying to contact the company and seek a refund. I was able to speak to someone in the local office, but all he was able to tell me was they are 2-3 weeks behind on jobs and that they would begin working on my roof once they were caught up.

Since then the BBB website has very recently updated with complaints against this company, and dropping BBB accreditation. All the phone numbers for this company have been disconnected. I’ve filed consumer and criminal complaints. I’ve alerted my insurance company to the situation. I’ve spoken with attorney’s that can’t seem to be able to help… without doling out even more money.

I’m at a loss, to the tune of almost $7,000.00. I’m trying to figure out how to recover the lost money but can’t seem to make it happen.

Never, ever, ever go with a contractor who knocks on your door offering their services.

Depending on the amount of money involved, hiring a lawyer may not be a bad idea: it indicates that you mean business. Also, regional companies respond well to regional publicity. Take your story to local TV and newspaper reporters, especially if there’s one who reports on consumer injustices. There’s something about having thousands of potential customers read about their shortfalls while eating their Cheerios that prods contractors into action. Sometimes.

Want more consumer news? Visit our parent organization, Consumer Reports, for the latest on scams, recalls, and other consumer issues.