Homeowners Take Legal Action Against Alco Windows and Doors in South Florida
Recent developments have surfaced regarding Alco Windows and Doors LLC, a window contractor based in South Florida, as at least 16 lawsuits have been filed by disgruntled homeowners. Many customers report having paid substantial sums for impact window installations, only to find that little to no work was completed. This situation has caught the attention of state regulators, prompting an investigation.
Background: A Childhood Home and a Costly Investment
Justin and Maricel Lafond, who recently moved into a Broward County home significant to them—built by Justin’s parents when they immigrated from Trinidad—decided to enhance the property with new impact windows. Pursuing this improvement, they turned to Alco Windows and Doors LLC after discovering the company online, encouraged by their favorable ratings on Google and the Better Business Bureau.
“They had a rating of 4.7, and the reviews were good, so we thought it would be a safe choice,” Maricel explained.
After a home visit from a company representative, the Lafonds decided to proceed, securing a loan of nearly $48,000 and promptly transferring the funds to the contractor to expedite the installation.
Delays and Installation Issues
Despite the significant investment, the Lafonds experienced delays of up to nine months before any work began. As Maricel noted, “Every month that passed, it just kept on delaying and delaying.” When the installation finally commenced, the couple faced additional challenges, including improper fitting of the windows that led to damage throughout their home.
“They came in and were banging on my new windows; they weren’t cutting the openings correctly,” Maricel recounted.
Immediate Consequences
Although the windows were installed, the Lafonds quickly discovered numerous issues. “The windows pop and crack randomly,” Justin stated, while Maricel revealed, “I had stucco exposed.” After reaching out to Alco for repairs, the workers attempted to rectify the problems, but so far, the installations have failed to pass inspection, leaving the permit open.
The Alarming Trend: More Complaints Surface
The Lafonds’ experience is not isolated. State records indicate that Alco Windows and Doors LLC, registered under Luis Alvarez, has faced at least 16 lawsuits over the past year. Many plaintiffs echo similar sentiments, describing how they made payments but received little to no service in return.
Ana Vieira, one of the affected homeowners, expressed her feelings of disillusionment after taking out a $12,000 loan for her windows, stating, “I felt deceived, because I trusted in a company that supposedly was willing to help out.” Like the Lafonds, she is now burdened with loan repayments despite not receiving the contracted services.
Regulatory Intervention
Homeowners, including the Lafonds and Vieira, have filed formal complaints with both the Department of Business and Professional Regulation and the State Attorney General’s Office. A representative from the Attorney General’s office confirmed that the Consumer Protection Division is actively investigating Alco Windows and Doors, having received over 30 complaints to date.
“I am completely willing to do whatever I have to do to make sure justice is served for everybody,” Justin affirmed, as these homeowners band together to seek accountability and prevent others from being similarly affected.
For further assistance or to report issues related to Alco Windows and Doors LLC, individuals are encouraged to contact local consumer protection services.
