LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – A 43-year-old man is accused of contracting with senior homeowners and collecting $250,000 without performing any work, the Nevada State Contractors Board says.
According to a media release from the board, general manager of Lifetime Power solar company contractor, Guadalupe Derek Carbajal, has been collecting money from senior homeowners for the past two years.
“This case is so egregious, the Nevada State Contractors Board called upon the Office of the Nevada Attorney General for prosecution,” said NSCB Executive Officer Margi Grein.
The board says he faces seven felony counts and one misdemeanor in an apparent violation of Nevada Revised Statues Criminal Theft. He could face up to 65 years in prison.
Friday, the board also announced that they created a new specialized solar investigations unit.
“The unit will specifically target solar complaints involving theft, fraud, abandonment, diversion of funds, and unlicensed contracting,” officials said. “This specialized solar unit will partner with entities across Nevada to include prosecutorial agencies in an effort to provide increased consumer protections regarding solar scams, deceptive loans and aggressive sales tactics.”
The unit will also aim to create a high level of accountability in Nevada members of the solar industry.
“The NSCB reports the total number of consumer complaints against solar companies has risen from 11 percent in 2022 to 18 percent in 2023,” officials say. “Of greatest concern to the NSCB are the large down payments being required of homeowners prior to any work being performed, as well as unlawful and predatory sales tactics being used by both licensed and unlicensed contractors.”
The board recommends those who are interested in purchasing solar panels should obtain at least three bids, verify the contractor’s license of each company and review the contract terms in great details or with an attorney before signing.
The board says anyone who has been harmed by a residential solar company could file a complaint with the Board or contact the NSCB at [email protected] or give them a call for further assistance.
Following an investigation, homeowners may be eligible for financial recourse through the Residential Recovery Fund, which affords up to $40,000 per validated claim.
Copyright 2024 KVVU. All rights reserved.
