Hitting the Roof (Part 6: Commercial Transactions) This clip portrays homeowners versus contractors. In some cases, money is taken by a contractor but the work is not done. Marketplace decides to make an award for its Hall of Shame. Home renovation is a booming industry. Three families did their homework in Halifax, but still got burned. Sullivan and Clark got quotes from two contractors. They choose Heritage Construction Inc. ("Heritage"), owned by Derek Hounsal and signed a detailed contract including a payment schedule. The contractor then disappeared for six weeks. A lien notice appeared because the contractor had not paid the drywall contractor. The homeowners had to hire their own carpenter. The Marketplace team are told that Mr. Hounsal may own a boat called "Good Credit," and has a house, but he denies it, saying he has access to a boat and his girlfriend owns a house. The Casseau family approves a contract with Heritage for $72 000. Mr. Hounsal was recommended to them. The Coopers agree to an $86 000 renovation. Marketplace learns that Mr. Hounsal's business went bankrupt twice. He has been to the Nova Scotia Supreme court twice, plus the Small Claims Court seven times in seven years. Who regulates construction services is an issue. Services Nova Scotia can take complaints, but simply refers people to court. The Nova Scotia Homebuilders Association can take action against its members, but Heritage is not a member of the association. General contractors do not need a license in Canada to do home renovations. New home builders need a license in three provinces. Ed Ross who manages building codes for the Ministry of Labour comments.

Who can the homeowners sue to recover their losses? What is the effect of a lien? If a homeowner successfully obtained a judgment against Heritage for breach of contract, how can they obtain their money?