Customers and trades people in eastern Ontario are warning others about what they say are the unscrupulous practices of a Renfrew, Ont., general contractor. Phil Slobodzian is the owner of a company called PSC New Home Construction Inc. and has taken on jobs throughout the Ottawa Valley, including in the City of Ottawa.
But almost everyone who hired Slobodzian said he took their money and then either failed to show up to carry out the work, or did a poor job.
Diane Iadeluca, a spokeswoman with the Ottawa Better Business Bureau, said her organization has received numerous complaints about PSC, which has received an F rating from the business group.
"The owner of this company is requesting some very large deposits for jobs that he either doesn't show up for, or show up for a later date, doesn't complete or does shoddy work," said Iadeluca.
"The owner seems to have a good disappearing act, so he takes the money and takes off."
Slobodzian has also drawn the ire of fellow contractors, some of whom claim he subcontracted them to do work and then never paid them.
In March, the Ontario Ministry of Consumer Services laid charges against Slododzian and his company for failing to deliver a valid contract, false or misleading practices and failure to refund within 15 days. The case has yet to go to trial.
Some people who have taken Slobodzian to small claims court, say that despite rulings in their favour they have seen only some of the money or no money at all.
Home owners should be wary of those contractors who demand hefty deposits or money up front before any work is completed.
If somebody wants a deposit off you, you are putting yourself at high risk,and you should be concerned.
No comments: