SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — The Utah Department of Commerce is taking legal action against Action Plumbing, Heating, Air and Electric due to accusations of gross misconduct and exploitation of seniors.
Officials said Thursday Utah Divisions of Professional Licensing (DOPL) and Consumer Protection (DCP) are “demanding substantial fines, consumer redress, and the revocation of the professional licenses” of the business and 12 of its electricians and plumbers.
A press release accuses Action of “systemic lack of supervision and deceptive business practices. . . . (stemming) from repeated allegations of misleading homeowners and exploiting vulnerable adults.”
Examples used in the press release include a woman with dementia who was “pressured” to sign checks the electrician filled out for over $50,000 of services she did not request or authorize. Another electrician with a different customer who had dementia mentioned that he would upsell the person, officials said.
“In other alleged incidents, Action employees would overstate or outright lie to homeowners about fire safety risks with their homes’ electrical systems to upsell services. However, after getting a second opinion, homeowners found that the quoted work was unnecessary and their electrical systems were completely safe,” the press release said.
Officials also accused Action of employing underqualified people, which put homeowners in the way of various risks. Action is also accused of failing to honor warranties and customer satisfaction guarantees.
The DOPL wants to revoke the licenses of the company and twelve of its employees, and the DCP is seeking damages for the customers affected by Action’s business practices.
The press release included tips on how to protect yourself from abusive business practices, and how to report unlawful business practices:
“How to Protect Yourself From Abusive Business Practices
- Beware of Scare Tactics: Be wary of service providers who pressure you into repairs by exaggerating minor issues.
- Get Multiple Estimates: Always obtain bids from several qualified professionals before making a decision. This will help you compare prices and ensure you’re getting a fair rate for the necessary repairs.
- Protect Vulnerable Adults: If you care for a vulnerable adult, be extra vigilant when selecting a home repair service provider. Communicate openly and honestly with your aging loved one about finances and big expenditures.
- Verify Credentials and Get Contracts in Writing: Confirm any home repair company or professional is properly licensed through DOPL’s online “Verify a License” tool. Ensure all individuals working on a project are either licensed or properly supervised by a licensed individual. For your protection, confirm that all agreements are documented in a written contract outlining the scope of work, timelines, and payment terms.
- Monitor Progress and Voice Concerns: Stay informed throughout the project by regularly checking on the work, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or raise concerns if something seems wrong.
How to Report Unlawful or Unprofessional Business Practices
If you or a loved one have been subject to any of these unlawful practices from Action or suspect any contractor or home service representative has misled you, you can file a complaint with the Utah Division of Consumer Protection at dcp.utah.gov.
The DCP complaint filing is attached, as is the DOPL Notice of Agency Action. Please view these documents for the full details of the allegations.
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