New Charges Laid Against Contractor for Unlicensed Activity

January 27, 2004

Edmonton...Vegreville area home renovation contractor John Alexander Lazerman, operating as John's Concrete, has been charged under Alberta's Fair Trading Act for operating as a pre-paid contractor without a licence.

Under the Fair Trading Act, special rules apply to contractors who ask for money before a job is completed and who negotiate contracts away from their normal place of business. Such contractors must be licensed as prepaid contractors and must post a security bond with Alberta Government Services.

"Alberta has some of the toughest consumer protection legislation in the country. The Fair Trading Act allows for tougher penalties and gives us more power to investigate complaints on behalf of Albertans," said Alberta Government Services Minister David Coutts.

John Alexander Lazerman has been the subject of previous investigations in home renovation situations and current charges were laid as a result of an investigation of seven consumer complaints in 2003. Individuals who have dealt with Lazerman in 2003 are asked to contact Alberta Government Services toll-free at 1-877-427-4088.

If a renovator signs a contract in a consumer's home and demands money upfront, Albertans can ask to see proof of an active prepaid contracting business licence. Albertans also have the unconditional right to cancel within 10 days any prepaid home renovation contract solicited, discussed or finalized in their homes.

A free tipsheet called Home Renovations and Repairs is available through the Alberta Government Services' web site, www.gov.ab.ca/gs. Click on Forms, Publications and Tipsheets for a copy. Albertans can also call 1-877-427-4088 for additional information. Consumers are also encouraged to check for information on a company's complaint history through the local Better Business Bureau.

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Media enquiries may be directed to:

Terry Cunha
Communications
Alberta Government Services
(780) 415-6051