An increasing number of homeowners in Alabama are reporting allegations against a contractor accused of accepting payments for home improvement projects but failing to complete the work. Adriane Hernandez is at the center of these claims, with victims from various locations stating they have lost significant sums of money. The situation has drawn the attention of state authorities, although no official investigation has been confirmed yet. Homeowners are now seeking legal recourse and urging others to exercise caution when hiring contractors.

In Ashville, Tesla Worley shared her ordeal after hiring Hernandez for renovations, only to find herself displaced from her home due to unfinished work. Her case is not isolated; more than a dozen individuals across Alabama have come forward with similar complaints. Among them is Carl Wyatt, who paid Hernandez over $43,000, and Beverly Stephens, who invested $4,800, both without receiving the promised results. These stories highlight a pattern of alleged misconduct by Hernandez, prompting concern among residents.

The issue gained traction as it caught the eye of the Alabama Attorney General's Office, though no formal response has been issued so far. Meanwhile, local law enforcement agencies remain aware of the accusations but have not confirmed an active probe into Hernandez's activities. Concerned parties, including Wyatt, have reached out to the Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board for clarification regarding Hernandez’s credentials. Shockingly, records indicate that Hernandez has never held a valid construction license in Alabama, making his operations illegal under state law.

Hernandez's alleged tactics extend beyond non-delivery of services. For instance, Beverly Stephens recounts how she ceased payments upon noticing substandard work, leading Hernandez to place a lien on her property. Despite winning a small claims court case awarding her $4,000, Stephens remains unpaid and was forced to hire another contractor to rectify the damage. Similarly, Carl Wyatt had to engage one of Hernandez’s former subcontractors to finish the incomplete project, further complicating the financial burden.

As severe weather continues to impact Alabama, the demand for reliable contractors rises. Homeowners affected by Hernandez's actions emphasize the importance of thorough research before committing to any professional. They recommend verifying licenses, reading reviews, and requesting references to avoid falling victim to similar scams. Additionally, avoiding upfront payments can serve as a protective measure against potential fraud.

Victims like Beverly Stephens express little hope of recovering their losses but fervently advocate for measures to prevent Hernandez from exploiting others. Their collective experiences underscore the need for vigilance and accountability within the construction industry, ensuring that future homeowners do not encounter such deceptive practices.