A default judgment was ordered again a Wichita contractor.

For immediate release June 25, 2024

Wichita, KS. -- A $171,651.50 default judgment was entered against local contractor Robert Bryan, doing business as Finest Construction, for failure to provide material benefit and engaging in deceptive acts under the Kansas Consumer Protection Act (KCPA.) The matter was investigated by the Office of the District Attorney’s Consumer Protection Division after receiving a consumer complaint regarding work being performed on a house that left the newly built porch sinking and pulling the roof down with it.

The Consumer Protection Division alleged that Robert Bryan, d/b/a Finest Construction, violated the KCPA by contracting for services without a license. Bryan performed various construction and remodeling services requiring trade certifications that he did not have, including electrical and plumbing work. The most serious involved foundation waterproofing work that Bryan attempted without the requisite licensing, engineering work and permits. After Mr. Bryan performed the work, the front porch began to sink, along with a portion of the house roof attached to the porch. An emergency beam was set at an angle into the lawn to prop up the roof from sinking further.

The court ordered Robert Bryan to pay $50,454.50 in restitution to the consumers, $120,000 in civil penalties, as well as court costs and investigative fees. The court also prohibited Mr. Bryan, from doing business as Finest Construction, from engaging in consumer transactions in Kansas, unless properly licensed and until all restitution, costs and fees in this judgment are paid.

The District Attorney reminds consumers to exercise care when selecting a contractor to work on their homes. Consumers should ask to see any potential contractor’s license and insurance information, and review any online information and reviews available about the contractor before signing a contract. Consumers should contact the Metropolitan Area Building and Construction Department (MABCD) at 660-1840 if they have any questions about a contractor’s licensing credentials. MABCD can confirm whether the contractor is licensed and has pulled permits in the past.

The default judgment was ordered on May 31, 2024 by Judge Eric Commer. The case number is SG-2024-CV-000664. This case was investigated by Investigator Jimmie Merrick of the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

District Attorney Marc Bennett
18th Judicial District of Kansas
CONTACT: DAN DILLON, MEDIA COORDINATOR 316-660-3707