Coeur d’Alene contractor settles with state over deceptive business practices

COEUR d’ALENE — A local contractor will pay restitution to customers who reported deceptive business practices that resulted in “substantial consumer losses,” according to the Idaho Attorney General’s Office.

Seven customers complained to the state about the business practices of Coeur d’Alene contractor Connell (Neal) R. Foster and his company, Prime Builders. 

Under the business registration of his spouse, Monica R. Foster, Connell Foster operated Prime Builders in Mullan and conducted construction work in Idaho and Washington. Consumers reported that Prime Builders accepted payments for home additions, decks, sheds and other structures, many of which were never delivered, only partially completed or refunded. 

Consumers alleged losses totaling more than $325,000. 

Connell Foster has agreed to cease all advertising, negotiating or entering into construction-related contracts with Idaho consumers unless he does so as an employee acting under the direction of a supervisor or third-party who is directly responsible for his actions, according to the Idaho Attorney General’s Office. He is also prohibited from engaging in construction business under his spouse’s name. 

The court-approved settlement requires Connell Foster to begin making restitution payments to affected consumers within 30 days. 

“This case is a reminder that Idaho contractors must be held to high standards of honesty and accountability,” Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador said in a news release. “Our office will continue to take decisive action against those who take advantage of Idaho families through fraud or deception.” 

Consumers who incurred losses because of Connell Foster’s construction practices may file consumer complaints with the Consumer Protection Division.