A contractor based in Lee County was arrested in Collier County - for allegedly contracting for work without a license or permit. Christopher Pascale, 47, faces two counts of failing to obtain the proper permits for renovations to a North Naples condominium.
The homeowner revealed to investigators that he had paid Pascale's company - Bonita Springs Floor Covering - over $40,000 for work that was never completed, including plumbing, painting and electrical work.
"I'm sure these homeowners got suspicious when there were no inspectors coming around, taking a look at the property," said Michael Ossorio, director of Collier County's Code Enforcement Division.
Ossorio said when someone hires a contractor who fails to obtain the proper licenses and permits, the homeowner will likely have to pay twice.
"The work is probably substandard, and you'll have to rip it out and do it all over again," he said.
After Hurricane Irma, signs were posted all over Collier County warning of criminal charges for anyone practicing unlicensed contract work. But contractor Vilier Cherisol said that doing work without permits is a problem any time of the year.
"When there's no hurricane or any special condition, they know nobody's watching," Cherisol said. "(We,) who go through the (permitting) process...we're going to be a little expensive, but we'll get the inspection get the proper work done."
Fox 4 made several attempts to reach Pascale without success. He is out on bond.
Anyone with questions about Collier County's permitting process can find more information here.
