Probe of Atlanta roofing company expanding

The investigation of an Atlanta-based roofing company accused of duping its customers out of possibly millions in roofing work across 10 states is expanding.

American Shingle already has several complaints on record in Middle Georgia, but the Georgia Governor’s Office of Consumer Affairs has joined the list investigating the roofing company, which filed for bankruptcy protection last week.

The company cites assets of $1 million to $10 million and debts of $10 million to $50 million.

The Office of Consumer Affairs is trying to claim some of the money from the bankruptcy proceedings in an effort to return it to American Shingle clients who say roofing work was not performed by the company.

American Shingle operated in Middle Georgia until August, when the company abruptly shut the doors of its Sheraton Drive Macon office promising to reopen. It remains closed.

In Middle Georgia, law enforcement agencies are reviewing the company.

“We still have our own investigation, but these acts have been reported in other states,” said Capt. Mike Smallwood, an investigator with the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. “This is a pretty big thing.”

So far, reports come in mostly daily on the company, Smallwood told The Telegraph, and about 30 people have formally reported losing more than $100,000.

According to bankruptcy documents, 159 creditors — including customers with roof repair claims — are seeking money from American Shingle across the state.

Customers claim in law enforcement reports the roofing company promised to perform work that has not been completed after being paid for or an insurance check has been signed over to American Shingle.

The reported amounts paid to the company for uncompleted work range from $1,700 to $25,000, and some customers claim sub-par work that actually damaged their existing roof.

American Shingle’s web site lists 25 offices in 10 states. Claims have been made in other major cities across the Southeast, from Birmingham, Ala. to Macon to Charlotte, N.C.

To contact writer Shelby G. Spires, call 744-4494.