A roofer in North Yorkshire has been fined and ordered to pay compensation after taking money for work he never completed, leaving customers frustrated and out of pocket.
Scarborough: A roofer has been fined for taking money from customers without doing the work. Donovan Morley-Clough, also known as Donovan Morley, ran DNIJ Home Improvements.
He appeared in court after pleading guilty to two offenses. The investigation started after a complaint from a resident in East Ayton. She paid him £1,000 for repointing and ridge tile work.
Morley-Clough promised to start the work a week later but never showed up. When she tried to get her money back, he blocked her on Facebook.
Another customer from Holme on Spalding Moor paid him £1,100 for materials for guttering work. He also failed to deliver any work or materials. Eventually, he repaid her £550 after she contacted his girlfriend.
In court, it was revealed that Morley-Clough is now unemployed and on Universal Credit. He was ordered to pay £1,000 and £550 in compensation, plus a fine and costs totaling £950.
Officials from North Yorkshire Council expressed concern over his actions, which caused distress to the affected homeowners. They emphasized the importance of hiring reputable tradespeople.
Residents are encouraged to seek recommendations and get multiple quotes before hiring anyone. For advice on rogue traders, they can contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service.
