Getting a pool installed on a property not only does little to improve the overall value, in Florida, it actually means more trouble for homeowners.
Luckily, Attorney General Pam Bondi is on the case.
Most people buy homes probably completely unaware of something called a Mechanic’s Lien — when workers hold up a home sale under the claim they didn’t get paid.
Allegedly, one pool company, Nationwide Pools lead by owner Keith Stuart, took money to install pools, but did not pay the subcontractors who actually did the work.
Bondi is now suing Nationwide, claiming violations of the state’s Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Act.
“These alleged practices include failing to pay subcontractors which caused liens to be placed on consumers’ homes, making misrepresentations relating to pool financing, charging illegal credit card fees, making misrepresentations regarding manufacturer rebates and warranties, and failing to complete construction of pools,” Bondi’s office said in a statement.
Bondi is seeking consumer restitution and, hopefully, she’s cleaning up those liens.
After all, there is a housing inventory shortage in the nation.
And, hey, who doesn’t like a pool? After all, they cost a small fortune to put in, cost a small fortune to maintain, present a death threat to children, pets, and anyone who can’t swim — oh and they don’t add much value to the home.
And in Florida, the pool guys can scam you and a lien can get placed on your home???
What’s not to like?
