Family dwelling in suburban area demands refund, having spent thousands of dollars on fresh windows: 'Please, don't disregard us'
In the heart of December 2024, homeowner Anthony Reed signed a contract with Baam Pro Services LLC, agreeing to pay $17,500 for new windows and an upstairs bathroom remodel. The project, which included replacing 22 windows in his house, seemed like a promising venture. However, eight weeks later, Reed is still waiting for the work to be completed and a refund from the contractor, Jaime Hernandez.
Reed, who is caring for his grandfather in hospice care at home, has been dealing with the cold drafts from the old windows. The delay in the project has not only caused financial loss but also emotional distress for the family.
According to Reed, he never cancelled the order. He only mentioned the possibility of cancellation after waiting for answers from the contractor for eight weeks. The owner of Baam Pro Services LLC, however, claims that Reed cancelled the order in February.
Consumer advocates advise homeowners to research a contractor online before handing over any money. They also recommend using a credit card to pay for work, enabling charge disputes if the work isn't completed. Reed, who paid $10,000 in cash to the contractor, wishes he had followed this advice.
The contractor's license with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation is currently active. Yet, attempts to reach Jaime Hernandez and Baam Pro Services LLC for comment have been unsuccessful. Reed has even filed a complaint with the Illinois Attorney General.
Jaime Hernandez, the contractor, has told the ABC7 I-Team he will issue a refund, but has also blamed the customer. Despite this, he claims the customer will get refunded, albeit with a restocking fee for the windows.
The current registered residence of Baam Pro Services LLC could not be found in the provided search results, adding to the mystery surrounding the uncompleted project. Reed is hopeful that justice will be served and he will receive the refund he deserves, as well as the completed home improvements that were promised.
In light of this situation, consumer advocates remind homeowners to be cautious when hiring contractors and to never pay more than one-third upfront. They also emphasise the importance of researching a contractor's reputation and checking for any outstanding complaints before entering into a contract.
