A Flathead County contractor accused of ripping off his clients agreed this month to pay $200,000 to his victims and stop doing business in Montana.

Nathaniel Gevern Lewis, through his construction businesses NGL Construction and From the Ground Up Construction, took customers' payment and then failed to complete the work, said Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen on March 12. On some jobs, Lewis allegedly demolished walls or decks without prior approval, occasionally claiming they suffered from rot or violated building codes, and then demanded more money.  

Lewis demanded large upfront payments, typically more than 50% of a project's total cost, Knudsen said. Several of his customers were left with unfinished jobs or structures exposed to the elements, according to the attorney general.  

The contractor also allegedly included threats of legal action or property liens when he demanded extra money.  

Lewis agreed to the deal with the Montana Department of Justice's Office of Consumer Protection after an investigation found that he had violated the state's Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act, according to Knudsen. While both the attorney general and Lewis had signed the agreement, it still requires the signature of a Flathead County District Court judge.  

In the meantime, Knudsen warned that Lewis may still be operating in the Flathead Valley and scamming customers. Knudsen recommended that those looking for a contractor remember to research their projects; get multiple bids; check references; ensure a contractor is registered, insured and bonded, draft a contract; communicate with the contractor in writing; and remain leery of con artists.  

News Editor Derrick Perkins can be reached at 758-4430 or dperkins@dailyinterlake.com.