The Register Citizen (Torrington, CT)
State warns of contractor fraud
The Department of Consumer Protection is warning consumers about Michael D. Ranno Jr., who it says is acting as a contractor.
DCP has received 14 complaints about him since 2014, with nine of those since last September.
DCP has an open investigation into allegations that Ranno has taken deposits from multiple Connecticut businesses, performed little or no work, and failed to take out permits or started work without a permit.
Ranno does not hold any occupational or trade licenses, such as plumbing, nor is he registered as a home improvement contractor.
Ranno, 54, uses multiple addresses including addresses in Cheshire and Meriden.
“Be sure to check that any contractor you are considering hiring is properly licensed or registered,” said Michelle H. Seagull, “Always ask if the contractor will be doing the work themselves or using sub-contractors, and if they are, who those subcontractors are. Always ask about building permits, and make sure your contract matches payments with the progress of the job.”
If you know of his whereabouts, even if not in Connecticut since he has complaints in others states as well, or have information about his current business dealings, please email dcp.occupationalenforcement@ct.gov.
If he is in Connecticut, please contact the police in that town and tell them he has an open warrant for larceny and performing plumbing work without a license.
If you are a consumer or business with a contract with Ranno that has not been fulfilled or for which he did work that requires a license or registration, please file a complaint to dcp.complaints@ct.gov with our complaint form, any contracts, proof of payment and details about the work.