New York Attorney General Letitia James has filed a lawsuit against the home improvement company Attyx, formerly known as SUNco, along with its co-CEOs and its lending partners companies Solar Mosaic and WebBank for allegedly defrauding homeowners with false promises of free home repairs and solar panel installations.
According to James’ office, Attyx targeted consumers – including many low-income New Yorkers and seniors on fixed incomes – by claiming to offer free or reduced-price home solar power systems, roof repairs, and other home improvement projects. Attyx’s salespeople reportedly told consumers the costs of the installations and repairs would be covered by government “incentives” and “programs.”
However, James’ office noted, consumers were lured into signing sales and loan contracts to pay tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. Solar Mosaic and WebBank reportedly charged the consumers hidden fees as part of their contracts.
James is seeking a court order to stop Attyx’s fraudulent marketing practices, cancel all the agreements between consumers and Attyx and its lending partners’ agreements with consumers, and provide restitution for those who were defrauded.
“When New Yorkers need home repairs, they should be able to get quality service without worrying about scammers cheating them out of their savings,” said James. “Attyx preyed on vulnerable and elderly homeowners with false promises and predatory tactics, leaving them with crushing loans they could not afford. My office will fight in court to bring these companies to justice and deliver relief to the thousands of New Yorkers who were ripped off by this illegal scheme.”
These “Home Improvement” Solar companies target a specific market. The customers are qualified for these loans by individuals which have no idea what they are doing, often times are sales people without any origination training.