Attorney General files suit against East Dundee construction company

Above Grade Construction LLC in East Dundee and owner William Boerger is one of four businesses Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan is going after for alleged deceptive business practices she said fleeced homeowners in suburban Chicago and central Illinois out of more than $220,000, according to a press release from the Illinois Attorney General's office.

Madigan filed lawsuits Monday, alleging the companies required homeowners to pay large deposits upfront and failed to complete work — and in some cases, even begin repairs, according to the release.

In her suit against Above Grade Construction LLC and William Boerger in East Dundee, Madigan alleges the business took insurance checks and other forms of payment from homeowners, though workers did not complete the work as promised. And even though consumers paid for work in full, subcontractors were not paid, leaving some homeowners now facing liens, the suit states.

Naperville resident Natasha Bonomo, who said she used Above Grade Construction LLC, is glad Madigan filed the lawsuit.

"I wanted it to become a bigger deal so that he doesn't continue to do this," she said. "I would like someone to hold him accountable criminally."

Madigan also filed lawsuits against Ultimate Roofing, Ultimate Roofing and Remodeling and owner Jerry Yeager, based in Granite City; 1st Choice Exteriors Inc. and Bill R. Frias, an unlicensed Addison public adjuster; and Click Marketing Inc., In Stock Cabinets Inc., Shop RTA Cabinets Inc., World Class Commerce Inc. and Frank LaMark, Jr., based in Franklin Park, the release said.

She alleges in some instances, the companies operated as "storm chasers," targeting communities after severe storms to take advantage of homeowners struggling with repairs, the release said.

"In some of these cases, homeowners are faced with the possibility of liens being placed on their homes all because they put their trust in the wrong people," Madigan said in the release. "Do your research before you hand over any money by first making sure you are hiring a reputable company. Be wary of anyone who knocks on your door offering services and make sure you obtain written copies of all contracts and warranties."

Following last week's tornadoes, Madigan is warning northern and central Illinois residents to be on alert for home repair con artists looking to exploit homeowners and local businesses needing repairs due to storm-related damage.

Attempts to reach Above Grade Construction LLC were unsuccessful.