Quote:
Originally Posted by Misspeck
I was given a card from "EARTHSCAPE" Specializing in Landscaping Service and called to have some work done. I was given a reasonable estimate and the work was begun without any payment. A small amount of stone removal was accomplished and the remainder was left in piles all over the property. I was then asked for a check for 1/2 of cost to finish job ($800) which I submitted by check. I never heard from him again and I still have piles of rocks in my yard. There is no answer to the dozens of calls I have made to both phone numbers supplied. I put a stop on the check which he cashed at a Check Store and now THEY want me to give them the $800. I have since been told that this man goes around telling everyone how he is trying to start up his business and will do a great job because he wants to make a reputation for himself. His name is John Andrews and there is no such place as EARTHSCAPE that knows him so I recommend that everyone beware of falling for this. I plan to pursue this with the local police because anything over $500 is larceny and I think this guy should be stopped.
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Wow, sadly a mess. My OPINION, I am not an expert and reality, should it go wrong,
I am accepting no responsibility. Every problem is what to do about it. Re: stopping payment and the,"Check Store," wants to be paid. I would ask your bank what to do.
The landscaper used a check cashing service, they charge a fee for this service, does not seem to have a bank account or perhaps it is frozen due to financial issues. It is time to build a file in case you need it. Old school perhaps but a letter return receipt is proof. A phone call is not. As to advice from your bank and return receipt letters even if done by phone, a return receipt letter stating this is confirming my conversation with
Mr. Ms NAME on date and time.
Of course the check cashing service wants to be paid. They are not on your side.
Been there done that. The reason you want to document everything in writing. Is they may well turn you over for collection. They will try themselves. Then they may well sell the file to a cheap and dirty collection service. Your file will help you. Should they turn
this into the credit agencies. You have the right to insist they put that into your file.