FORT MYERS -- A condo complex still
recovering from Hurricane Ian says a contractor took $368,000 for roof
repairs but never did the work.
Michael Contorno, president of the Windsor West Condominium Association,
first shared his concerns with WINK News at a WINK Listens event. For him,
this isn't just business—it's personal.
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Court records show the
agreement required the contractor, Shieldtech Roofing
Solutions, LLC, to pay the money back and write a letter of
apology. The owner of Shieldtech wrote in the letter, "I
apologize for taking $368 thousand dollars without
performing the contracted roofing work."
Shieldtech Roofing never paid the money back, Contorno said.
That infuriates the attorney representing the condo
association.
"It would be great to have the weight
of law enforcement, and in the state of Florida, you know, to come in and
hold these people accountable," said Jason Mikes, attorney for Windsor West
Condominiums.
Mikes said at this point, he feels it's gone beyond a civil matter.
"We can't find the person. We can't find any assets … Justice would be law
enforcement stepping in and pursuing a criminal action against this person,"
Mikes said.
Shieldtech Roofing's website only says "coming soon." With a phone number
and an email, WINK News reached out to the contractor multiple times by
phone and email, but received no response.
Contorno hired another roofing company to fix the roof and make repairs. But
what he really wants is the money the association is owed.
"It's a huge burden to shoulder all the time, and I get very emotional about
it, because this is my family. This is my community, and I would really like
to see something done on their behalf," Contorno said.
Since WINK News got involved, the case is again before the judge, but the
wheels of justice are turning slowly. The condo association has also filed
complaints with the Department of Business and Professional Regulation and
the Attorney General's Office.
If you are hiring a contractor, check their licensing with DBPR. Ask for
references and follow up with those clients. Set up a payment schedule and
never pay the full amount up front.
