Florida sues construction companies accused of preying on hurricane victims
www.flvoicenews.com, Kennedy Ownes, September 25, 2026
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier filed a lawsuit against two Naples-based construction companies and six principals and officers accused of taking payments from homeowners for storm repairs that were unfinished or never started.
The lawsuit names Evolve Construction LLC, Evolve Construction & Restoration Inc., and six individuals. The state alleges they targeted homeowners who needed roof repairs, roof replacements and water and mold remediation after Hurricanes Ian and Milton.
At least 80 consumers across 11 Florida counties have filed complaints with the Attorney General’s Office. More than 60% are seniors.
“These companies knocked on doors after the storms, promised fast repairs, took insurance money, and left Florida families with unfinished homes and liens on their property,” Uthmeier said.
During a news conference announcing the lawsuit, Uthmeier said the state has identified more than $1 million paid by consumers who said they did not receive the work they were promised.
“We’re going to hold them accountable,” Uthmeier said.
The complaint was filed in the 20th Judicial Circuit in Lee County. According to the state, insurance payments ranged from $5,000 to $80,000 per property.
The lawsuit alleges company representatives went door to door after the hurricanes, offered “free” roof inspections and presented themselves as experts. The state says the sales representatives were not licensed contractors and lacked the home-solicitation sale permits required by Florida law.
The defendants allegedly promised quick permits, faster repairs, and favorable insurance settlements before collecting insurance payments and failing to complete the work.
The state also alleges some consumers were denied refunds, while others received incomplete or poor-quality work that failed inspections or caused additional property damage.
In some cases, the defendants allegedly threatened to place liens on homes or recorded liens even when no work had been performed or materials purchased.
Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation Secretary Melanie Griffin joined Uthmeier at the news conference and urged homeowners to verify contractors before signing contracts or making payments.
“We want you to know what it is to look out for, what to ask, and when there are red flags, make sure you know about them before you actually enter into a contract and make any payments,” Griffin said.
Griffin said her department’s actions against defendant Ahmed Darkawi resulted in 12 final orders and the loss of his license.
The lawsuit brings two counts under the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act. Uthmeier is seeking an injunction, restitution for consumers, the return of allegedly ill-gotten gains, civil penalties, and attorney’s fees and costs.
Floridians who believe the companies or similar storm-repair contractors harmed them can file a complaint at MyFloridaLegal.com or call 1-866-9-NO-SCAM.
News article: https://flvoicenews.com/florida-sues-construction-companies-accused-of-preying-on-hurricane-victims/