The New York State Attorney General's Office says it has reached a settlement with an Amherst fence company that bilked New Yorkers out of $50,000.
The AG says Classic Fence and Lumberand its owner Fred DeNormand repeatedly accepted advance payments from consumers, but failed to deliver the products and services.
"In September of 2017, the Attorney General’s office began receiving complaints from consumers who believed Classic Fence had defrauded them," said Eric Schneiderman. "The Attorney General’s investigation identified 22 consumers who paid Classic Fence deposits ranging from $425-$8,359, but for whom Classic Fence had done no work. In one additional case, Classic Fence only completed part of the job."
TheBetter Business Bureau received 40 complaints filed against company. The BBB says there was a failure to respond to 17 complaints and another that was not resolved. They also could not substantiate Classic Fence was a member of the BBB, as claimed by the company.
Wednesday's agreement requires Classic Fence to cease operating and pay over $50,000 in restitution to consumers, in addition to $5,000 in penalties and costs. The settlement also prohibits DeNormand from engaging in any home improvement business in the future.
Consumers who wish to file a complaint against Classic Fence for products and services they did not receive should call the AG’s Consumer Help Line in Buffalo (853-8404) or file an online complaint. Complaints must be received by February 26. Additional information on how to avoid fraudulent home improvement contractors can be found online.