by Lockport Contractor Accused of Scamming Homeowners Out of Nearly $40,000, Faces Criminal Charges
BUFFALO, N.Y. — A Lockport business owner is facing serious legal trouble after allegedly scamming multiple homeowners out of tens of thousands of dollars for work he never completed.
Wayne Michalak, 52, owner and operator of WNY Backyard Enclosures, LLC, was arraigned Tuesday on an indictment accusing him of pocketing nearly $40,000 in deposits for home improvement projects that were never started. According to the Erie County District Attorney’s Office, the alleged incidents took place in 2022 and involved homeowners in Marilla, Blasdell, and Tonawanda.
One homeowner in the Town of Marilla reportedly paid Michalak $28,889.38 for a detached garage — but no construction ever took place. Michalak had been hired to install garages and patios for all three customers, but officials say not a single project was completed.
“Homeowners across the country, including here in New York and as far as Wyoming, should be vigilant when hiring contractors during the busy summer months,” said Erie County District Attorney Mike Keane. “If you suspect you’ve been a victim of a home improvement scam, contact our office immediately.”
Michalak’s company, WNY Backyard Enclosures, is not accredited by the Better Business Bureau.
He now faces three felony counts of third-degree grand larceny and could spend up to seven years in prison if convicted. Michalak is scheduled to appear in court again on May 29.
