News Summary
Orange Elephant Roofing, a Charleston-area roofing company, has been evicted amid multiple fraud allegations from dissatisfied clients. Customers claim they paid significant sums for incomplete work and have encountered difficulties in contacting the company or its owner, Jake Kelly. As the situation escalates, clients from several states are reporting similar experiences, leading to the formation of a support group. Investigations by state and federal authorities are underway as clients seek legal recourse to recover their lost funds. This case serves as a stark reminder for homeowners to remain cautious when hiring contractors.
Charleston Roofing Company Under Fire for Alleged Fraud
In a *dramatic turn of events*, a Charleston-area roofing company, Orange Elephant Roofing, has been officially kicked out of its workspace following a slew of complaints from unsatisfied clients. This recent eviction has sent ripples of concern throughout the community and beyond, as dozens of unhappy customers step forward to share their troubling experiences.
Allegations of Missing Work and Funds
Reports have painted a *shocking picture* of this roofing company. Many customers have alleged that they paid the company hundreds of thousands of dollars in exchange for roofing services that were never completed. This situation escalated in November when dozens of clients started sharing their stories, detailing how they forked over thousands for promised repairs that never materialized. To make matters worse, it appears clients have been unable to get in touch with Orange Elephant Roofing or its owner, Jake Kelly, since those troubling reports began.
Eviction Notices Served
Fast forward to last Friday, and the situation took a further twist as eviction notices were served to the company. These notices included a warrant of ejection that requires the company to vacate its premises by March 4, leaving many clients wondering if they will ever see their money again. Alongside the eviction, a writ of ejection was issued, allowing them just 24 hours to leave their workspace or face removal by a deputy sheriff. The legal action began with a timestamp at 10:33 a.m., marking the efficient start of the countdown clock for Orange Elephant Roofing.
Clients Across State Lines Speak Out
The issues with Orange Elephant Roofing aren’t just confined to Charleston. Customers from other states such as Illinois, Colorado, and Texas have also been coming forward with claims that mirror the *frustrations* of those local to Charleston. In the wake of this, a Facebook group called “Victims of Orange Elephant” has formed, rapidly growing to over 300 members who are now banding together to share their experiences and support one another.
Investigations Underway
As the *story continues to unfold*, Orange Elephant Roofing finds itself in the crosshairs of state and federal investigations. Homeowners affected have sought legal representation in a bid to recover their lost funds. A local attorney representing multiple clients has received reports of more than ten calls every day from desperate homeowners from various states who are seeking justice.
What’s Next for Clients?
While some clients indicated they did receive initial work, many were left with ongoing issues like leaks that never got resolved. Information has surfaced suggesting that *predatory practices* may have extended beyond management to include some former employees as well. In light of the recent developments, there has been noticeable frustration from clients regarding local law enforcement’s classification of the issue as civil. The attorney for the clients believes there is a significant criminal aspect to these allegations.
Protecting Yourself Against Fraud
With investigations already being conducted by entities like the National Insurance Crime Bureau and the South Carolina Department of Insurance, local homeowners are being advised to tread carefully when dealing with contractors. It’s strongly recommended that homeowners never sign over insurance checks or make additional payments without receiving *written receipts* for any work that is supposed to be done.
As this story continues to evolve, it serves as a reminder for everyone to stay vigilant and informed when it comes to home improvement services and contractors. The *landscape is shifting*, and individuals in Charleston as well as across the nation are beginning to unite against the injustices faced in their quest for safe and secure homes.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: Charleston Roofing Company Under Fire
- Count On 2: Local Business Steps in for Homeowners Scammed
- Live 5 News: Investigation into Charleston-Based Roofing Company
- Roofing Contractor: Eskola Expands Operations Across the South
- Google Search: Roofing Fraud
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
