VIP Remodeling

The owner, Steve Rice, misrepresented his experience and ability as wells his business status (falsely claimed to be located in the area; has no perma

1st of Mar, 2012 by chalete509

See Maryland Dept. of Assessments and Taxation: THE ENTITY WAS FORFEITED FOR FAILURE TO FILE PROPERTY RETURN FOR 2010.

Based on an online ad, I contacted Steve Rice of VIP Remodeling & Renovations, Inc. in March of 2010. I interviewed him regarding his experience, and he later contacted me multiple times in an effort to secure the small bathroom remodel project for his company. After signing a contract and paying a large deposit, Mr. Rice began the project. Due to the fact that he hired two subs who reside in the county his business is located in, travel to and from the job site became an issue. In addition, Mr. Rice didn't pay the subs, and after the initial two days on the job, they didn't return. Mr. Rice then demanded money, which was not obligated under the terms of the contract. It later became clear that he had made another contract commitment in the county where his business is actually based and needed funds to continue that project. After two more unscheduled payments, which when added together with the deposit, exceeded the total sum due for the entire project, Mr. Rice abandoned the job.

Because Mr. Rice absconded with the funds for the project, my losses included 7 months of lost rent as of the actual completion date of the bathroom installation. In October 2010, Steve Rice was compelled by Maryland DLLR to return to the job site and complete the project or to return the money. He claimed that he didn't have the money and would complete the job himself; however, Mr. Rice doesn't have the skills or expertise to do the various tasks involved, including tile work. When, after three days, he left and never returned the unfinished mess had to be competed by another contractor. The contract, signed in March 2010, was seven months old in September when I filed a formal complaint with the Maryland Dept. of Licensing.

Consumers should be aware that anyone can publish a website and, apparently there is no enforcement of copyright laws that would protect owners of photographs. A simple check of business status on the Maryland Dept. of Assessments & Taxation website will give potential consumers a look at VIP's business standing. Also, the truth of his statement on the VIP website (www.vipremodeling-renovations.com; www.vipremodeling-renovations.net) to having "over 15 years of experience in the industry" should be evaluated against the document entitled 'Articles of Incorporation' that was filed Sept. 2009. As of October 2010, the corporation has been dissolved for non-filing of property tax.

Mr. Rice's spouse (Amanda), listed as a partner in the Articles of Incorporation, likely contributed the bogus names and testimonials for the dubious ads, but Steve Rice alone is responsible for the fraudulent claims, including claims about being licensed. In fact, his home improvement contractor's license expired in 2011.

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