Vietnam veteran Lorenzo Neely says that, after trusting a Jacksonville-based roofing company, he is now at risk of losing his home.
Lorenzo Neely, a Purple Heart recipient, says he trusted a Jacksonville-based company, Florida Roof Specialists, after representatives told him his roof could be replaced at no cost through his homeowner’s insurance.
“It was a scam,” Neely said. “You find the old man, oh yeah, we can get him. You can scam him and get him.”
Neely says the company completed his roof, but this week, he received a foreclosure notice because of an outstanding balance from the roofing company. He says he never agreed to pay more than his deductible and claims his insurance company also failed to get a response from the roofer.
“I’m hurting, man,” Neely said, breaking down in tears. “I’m tired. Leave me alone. Let me die in my own time, not you pushing me because you want me to get my property.”
The Florida Attorney General’s Office has filed a lawsuit against Florida Roof Specialists, alleging the company misled homeowners into believing they would only have to pay their insurance deductible. According to the AG, the company then demanded additional payments after the work was completed, and filed liens on properties when homeowners refused to pay.
Since 2020, the state has received nearly 200 complaints from consumers claiming they were deceived in a similar way. The lawsuit argues that Florida Roof Specialists violated the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act.
The Better Business Bureau has given the company a D-plus rating, citing a pattern of complaints involving contract issues and unresponsive communication.
Neely, who served in Vietnam and continues to suffer health issues linked to Agent Orange exposure, says the ordeal has left him emotionally and financially drained.
“I want to be treated as a human being,” he said. “I want to be treated as a veteran. I served this country.”
First Coast News reached out to Florida Roof Specialists for comment but has not received a response.
The Attorney General’s investigation is still active. The Better Business Bureau urges homeowners to research contractors, get multiple estimates and never sign a contract without a detailed written cost breakdown.