$18K Fine For 'House Flipper,' Unlicensed Contractor: Office of Consumer Protection

NEW CITY, NY — A company that earns profit by renovating and selling homes, ran afoul of the law in a big way, according to inspectors.

The Rockland County Office of Consumer Protection said it has issued $18,000 in penalties to New York City-based Schimon Properties, the corporate owner Effi Orin, and unlicensed contractor Angel H. Palchizaca Maurizaca for illegally flipping a Tappan home without the required licenses or insurance, which are mandatory under NYS and local licensing laws.

"Rockland County will not tolerate illegal construction or attempts to circumvent our licensing laws," said County Executive Ed Day. "Our Office of Consumer Protection is doing outstanding work holding bad actors accountable and will continue to pursue anyone who tries to put profit over public safety."

The Office of Consumer Protection launched an investigation after receiving complaints about construction at a home in Tappan. Investigators documented a series of major renovations which they say are in violation of local laws and an official Town of Orangetown "Stop Work Order."

The company, which owns properties across Rockland County, tried to conceal the renovation work by surrounding the property with a tarped fence, according to investigators.

"Trying to evade the licensing rules by creating an LLC and claiming to be a homeowner renovating their private residence will not be tolerated," Consumer Protection Director Kimberly Von Ronn said. "The licensing and insurance rules apply to everyone equally. Consumer Protection inspectors work closely with local Building Departments and the Sheriff's Office to ensure that construction activity in Rockland County is legal, safe, and properly supervised."

The Town of Orangetown said it is pursuing separate enforcement proceedings related to the building code infractions.

The Office of Consumer Protection urges all homeowners and property investors to report suspected unlicensed activity to the Office of Consumer Protection by calling 845-364-3901. Residents can contact the office or visit the County’s website to search the contractor license database.