Attorney General's News Release

March 18, 2005

Attorney General Nixon secures $10,500 for consumers in judgment against Springfield home repair business

Springfield, Mo. — Attorney General Jay Nixon today obtained a court-approved consent judgment against a Springfield business that accepted deposits for home repair services and then failed to follow through on its contracts.

The judgment, obtained in Greene County Circuit Court, orders American Modern Exteriors to pay restitution to seven customers in the amount of $10,539.46, pay a civil penalty of $3,000 to the Missouri Merchandising Practices Revolving Fund and pay all court costs.

"Anyone contemplating any type of home repair fraud needs to know right now we are serious in enforcing our consumer protection laws," Nixon said. "When Missourians pay for services, they expect to receive them. If they do not, we will enforce Missouri's consumer protection provisions with the full force of the law."

In the suit filed against American Modern Exteriors in May 2004, Nixon alleged that the company misrepresented its services to consumers by telling them their home repair services would be completed by a particular date; telling consumers they would receive refunds; and promising home repair services would be provided. Numerous consumers told the Attorney General the company did not follow through on these promises.

Home repair fraud is consistently one of the top complaints to the Attorney General's Office, Nixon said. He urged consumers to follow a few simple rules before hiring a contractor:

• Ask for several written estimates from local firms.
• Ask for references, then call them.
• Get all guarantees in writing.
• Don't pay more than one-third of the total price for a down payment.
• Consider writing a check directly to the supplier if a contractor asks for an advance on supplies.

"We're working hard to uncover unscrupulous home repair companies, but the best defense is a good offense," Nixon said.

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to the Press Secretary.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818