(WHAS11) - Home repair rip-offs peak this time of year when people have cash from tax returns, and are looking to invest that cash in home improvements. 

One Kentucky couple is now out tens-of-thousands of dollars after being scammed by a man who’s been convicted of home repair scams before.

But by the time they found out about his past it was too late.

Jeff and Lisa Murphy signed this contract with champion construction exactly one year ago and they say it’s been a nightmare since the very beginning. 

Jeff and Lisa were contacted by a guy named john McQueen after an inquiry.  They were getting married and needed an addition to accommodate both of their kids.

Had they known his reputation, John McQueen wouldn’t have been paid $33,150 for what turned out to be a shoddy job.  Lisa says McQueen has several bad ratings for contract issues.

“I also found two companies in Florida and he has an F rating with them, once again contract issues,” says Lisa.

By her own admission, Lisa didn’t do enough homework on champion construction until it was too late.

Homeowners do have the option of filing a lawsuit and leaving it up to a court to decide if restitution is in order.  But if you’re dealing with someone who’s not running a legitimate business they often file bankruptcy and there’s no money to be had.

Better Business Bureau

Federal Trade Commission