Consumer Alert – Southern Alberta-Area Home Renovator Charged Following Complaint by Elderly Calgary Couple
For immediate release, Edmonton A home renovator, known to work in Southern Alberta, faces charges under the province’s consumer protection legislation following an investigation by Alberta Government Services. Michael Williams, a salesman for Ashton Developments and Renovations, has been charged with four counts under the Fair Trading Act. The charges involve allegations of misrepresentation in which a home renovator offered a roofing contract to a Calgary couple who are in their 70’s. It is alleged that Williams took several deposits without the required provincial licence and made several misrepresentations to the couple to induce them into the sales contract. Williams, whose firm does not have a permanent office, faces charges of having no provincial license, taking advantage of the consumers, overcharging the consumers and making representations that work was needed, when it was not. He is scheduled to appear in Calgary Provincial Court, Criminal Division, in April. Alberta Government Services continues its investigation. Any other homeowners who believe they have signed a contract with Michael Williams are asked to contact the department’s Consumer Information Centre at: 1-877-427-4088—toll free. Consumers are advised not to agree to any renovation work unless the full costs are disclosed in writing before the work is started and no money is paid until the work is done. As well, if a home renovator demands any money up front, consumers are entitled to see proof of an active Pre-paid Contractors’ Licence as required under the Fair Trading Act. Consumers are encouraged to contact Alberta Government Services to check the licences and bonds of a home renovator before signing a contract. The Fair Trading Act is the toughest consumer protection legislation in Canada. The Act spells out in plain language the rights and responsibilities of consumers and businesses in the province. Maximum penalties under the Fair Trading Act are $100,000 and/or two years in jail. -30- A tipsheet called Home Renovations and Repairs is available at
Contact:
Ed Greenberg - Communications, Alberta Government Services - (780) 415-6051 - (780) 718-5699
