When Hurricane Milton struck Palm Harbor, it damaged 15 screens at Dave Hoffmann’s home. In early December, he and his wife hired Steve Bourget Rescreening to fix the damage, with assurances the work would be completed the following week. However, they were required to pay a 50% deposit upfront, totaling $750, which Hoffmann paid by check.

After making the payment, Hoffmann claims communication with Bourget dwindled to excuses and ultimately ceased altogether.

“It’s been about a month,” Hoffmann said. “He doesn’t answer calls, and his voicemail is full, so I can’t leave messages.”

Hoffmann expressed frustration, seeking either completion of the job or a refund. Attempts to reach Bourget by phone were met with a full voicemail box, and text messages went unanswered.

An investigation revealed Bourget’s company has an F rating with the Better Business Bureau, with similar complaints filed against him. Records show Bourget was arrested by the Pasco County Sheriff’s office in 2019 and found guilty of a felony in 2022 for taking deposits without performing the work and lacking the proper license. He was sentenced to one year and six months of probation.

Hoffmann discovered these details during his own research. The Pinellas County Licensing Board informed WFLA News that while a license is not required for rescreening in Pinellas County, constructing a screen enclosure does require a license and permit. A representative mentioned Bourget has taken the state exam for a license to build enclosures and is awaiting the results. His felony conviction would not automatically disqualify him from obtaining the license.

Taking money without performing the work is illegal, and the Hoffmanns have filed complaints with the appropriate regulatory bodies. They also noted lessons learned from the experience.

“No more deposits,” Hoffmann said. “We’ll pay when the job is done, and we’ll conduct more thorough research beforehand.”

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(Image credit: Modern Pool Cage LLC)