Business ProfileforC&T Construction LLC

A contract was signed on 8/18/2022 for repair of a deck at my home. I placed a deposit of $2,347.48 on the project, which was withdrawn by C&T Construction on 8/31/22. I contacted C&T several times to try to setup a date to start the project. They returned to my house in late October 2022 to inform me that they actually could not complete the project as agreed upon. I requested to have my deposit back on 10/21/22 by email. I was told that they would return the deposit. Over the next several months I have contacted the company multiple times. I have been given various excuses. I have been told that the check is in the mail, however it never arrives. I've been told their accountant is currently out of the office, and that they cannot issue a check. I was last told that the check was mailed on 1/4/23, but still has not arrived. I have offered to go to the office to collect the check. I lastly agreed to meet the owner, *****, on 1/20/23 at 4pm. We were to meet in the same place he was given my deposit. He did not show up for the meeting, and is no longer returning text, email or phone messages. I have been assuming incompetence and unprofessional practice for the last 3 months. However, at this point, it seems this is more likely intentional deception. I would like to file a claim of fraud. I would like the money taken from me returned. I would like others to know of this event so they can make better decisions in hiring a contractor. Thank you for the help in this frustrating matter,*********************