Contractor Fraud Legal Steps

Summary

If a contractor in Wisconsin takes your deposit and closes the business, it may be considered contractor fraud. You can file a police report and a complaint with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. Consulting a lawyer for possible civil action is also advisable.

Full Conversation

We contracted a company to replace our roof. He took our $*,* deposit and closed the business and now won't communicate with us. We have been in contact with DATCP but are wondering about filing a police report for theft.
Hello ****, I'm sorry to hear about your situation. Filing a police report could be a good step. However, it would help if you could clarify where you're located, as laws can vary by location.
Wisconsin
Hello ****, in Wisconsin:
*. It might be considered contractor fraud which is a crime.
*. You can file a police report and also a complaint with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
*. Consider consulting with a lawyer for possible civil action.