An elderly man in Scarborough finds himself displaced and living out of a suitcase after a roofing contractor left his home in shambles. The man, Lawrence Huang, was approached by a company called Super Dry Roofing and Masonry, claiming his roof was infested with rodents and needed replacement. Huang, who is 76 years old and described as being on the autism spectrum, signed a contract and paid a $25,000 advance for the $50,000 job.
The contractor proceeded to remove the roof, exposing the home to the elements. As work continued, Huang handed over additional payments, totaling $65,800, before his bank raised concerns and declined a large cheque. Subsequently, authorities were alerted, and the workers abruptly abandoned the site, leaving the house roofless and in disarray.
Efforts to reach Super Dry have been futile, with disconnected phone lines and undeliverable emails. Huang’s niece, Katie Semple, highlights the devastating impact on her uncle, who has since been forced to live in motels as he grapples with the daunting task of rebuilding his home. His belongings, including cherished items, have been destroyed by weather, intruders, and animals.
TD Insurance, Huang’s insurer, has refused to cover most of the damages, citing reasons such as faulty workmanship and policy exclusions. Despite Semple’s assertions of fraudulent activity by the contractor, TD Insurance remains steadfast in its stance. Progress has been made in covering damaged contents, but the crucial rebuild costs are still unresolved.
The situation underscores the challenges faced by homeowners in such predicaments, with insurance companies often hesitant to cover structural damage. Seeking legal recourse can be costly, prompting suggestions to engage industry mediators like the General Insurance Ombudservice. Police are investigating the incident, noting the prevalence of roofing scams in the city.
Det. David Coffey of the financial crimes unit explains the tactics employed by scammers, emphasizing the importance of verification and caution when approached by unsolicited contractors. He advises homeowners to conduct thorough research and avoid making hasty decisions under pressure. The case serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the need for vigilance and due diligence in dealing with home renovation solicitations.