Unlicensed Handyman Faces Felony After Roof Collapse Injures Local Man
A man was injured in Fort Myers Shores after a roof collapse involving an unlicensed handyman. Legal actions follow.
Unlicensed Handyman Faces Felony After Roof Collapse Injures Local Man
In Fort Myers Shores, a roof collapse during a heavy rainstorm has left a local man with serious injuries. Vin Russo suffered a shattered shoulder when a part of his home’s roof gave way. His wife, Maria Russo, recorded the shocking event, which underscores the importance of hiring the right professionals for home repairs. The couple had enlisted handyman Leon Carter to address water leaks in their lanai, but things took a turn when the roof collapsed, leading them to claim that they were misled about Carter’s credentials.
A $3,000 check was handed over to Carter, but he is now facing felony charges for unlicensed contracting. According to law enforcement, Carter is not a licensed handyman in Lee County, and the work he undertook required a licensed roofer under Florida law. He reportedly used a sealant that is not permitted without proper licensing, raising critical questions about the implications of hiring unlicensed contractors in the state.
Legal Ramifications of Unlicensed Contracting
Under Florida law, engaging in construction activities without the appropriate license is not just a violation but can lead to severe legal consequences. According to Florida Hard Hat Law, individuals found guilty of unlicensed contracting can face First Degree Misdemeanor charges, which may lead to up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine. For repeated offenses, it could escalate to Third Degree Felony charges, resulting in up to five years in prison and fines reaching $5,000. The Russos, who estimate that repairs could cost over $50,000, have reported Carter’s actions to law enforcement and the state attorney as they navigate this troubling situation.
In the case of unlicensed contractors like Carter, Florida statutes also specify that they are entitled to fewer rights and privileges compared to licensed professionals. The law mandates that all construction contractors hold a valid active certificate or registration; failure to do so can lead to significant penalties, including administrative fines up to $10,000, as outlined by the Florida Senate in Statute 489.13.
The Importance of Verification
The events surrounding the Russo case spotlight the critical need for homeowners to verify the licenses of contractors before any work is undertaken. Hiring unlicensed individuals not only increases the risk of shoddy work, as seen in this instance with the roof collapse, but can lead to complicated legal battles when injuries or damages occur. The Russos assert that Carter refused to file an insurance claim after the incident, complicating their path toward recovery.
As Floridians proceed with home renovations and repairs, it would do well to remember that cutting corners by hiring unlicensed contractors could lead to disastrous consequences, both financially and physically. The Russos‘ plight serves as a reminder that while handyman services may come at a bargain, ensuring proper licensure is critical for protecting oneself and one’s investment in their home.
For those who have been harmed by unlicensed contractors, consulting with a legal professional familiar with Florida’s construction laws is a necessary step in seeking justice. As the Russos continue to deal with the fallout from this unfortunate incident, the conversation surrounding unlicensed contracting in Florida remains as relevant as ever.