Roofer suspended after 8 On Your Side investigation
By: Mark Douglas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – Summitwood Works, a Hillsborough roofing contractor owned by Neal Scoppettuolo we’ve been investigating for months, has been suspended from the government-sanctioned PACE financing program by its lender, the Ygrene Energy Fund, for deceptive business practices.
“Bottom line is we want our future customers feeling comfortable,” said Ygrene spokesman Joaquin McPeek. “It’s concerning anytime you hear consumers are mislead, deceived or taken advantage of.”
The PACE program that Ygrene helps finance is a government-sanctioned plan that allows homeowners with bad credit or little money to afford energy-efficient home renovations. The bill then appears on their taxes as a special assessment over a number of years. The cost can easily double or triple the tax bill and possibly force some homeowners into foreclosure if they are not prepared to pay the annual cost.
The Ygrene suspension also applies to Crestlake Services, an A/C company also owned by Scoppettuolo that uses similar deceptive advertising to lure customers.
Ygrene suspended Scoppettuolo following a number of 8 On Your Side investigative reports detailing his deceptive business practices.
“They should not be doing any work under any PACE provider in the State of Florida,” said Pasco Tax Collector Mike Fasano.
In addition to his problem with PACE lenders, Scoppettuolo is also in debt to a shingle company for failing to pay for supplies used on 17 of his roofing projects in Collier, Hillsborough and Pasco counties.
What to Look for in Quality Roofer
Insist on hiring a local roofer that also offers a warranty that covers the materials being used. We offer multiple warranties on our products. We recommend the Owens Corning System Protection Warranty on all Home Roof Replacements. The System Protection Warranty covers all of the materials made by Owens Corning for a Non-prorated period of 50 years, and includes the cost of labor.
At Shingle Masters, we also offer the GAF System Warranty. The standard warranty offered by many competitors only includes the cost of the shingle material at a prorated (discounted) cost.
References and Testimonials for a Quality Roofer
When it comes to reputation, there is nothing better that receiving positive reviews for the quality work completed. Unfortunately the roofing industry has many companies that come and go. This is why finding a reputable roofer and with a trusted track record is vital in making your decision to choose the right local roofer in your area.
Since 2007 and for over 10 years, Shingle Masters is proud to have hundreds of positive and 5 star reviews with Home Advisor, BBB and Guild Quality. Our roofing services speak for themselves.
Call us today, serving:
Hillsborough/Pasco 813-793-7731
Pinellas 727-475-2751
Manatee/Sarasota 941-306-3734