Clients claim projects were abandoned, funds misused
According to Calvin Sangster, the trouble started when Thomas shifted focus from his affordable housing work to a personal real estate flip.
“The turning point was a house in Salem that [Thomas] purchased,” he told NBC10.
Records show Thomas bought the property in 2023 for $520,000, using a hard money loan, a high-interest financing tool often used in fast-paced, high-risk property flips.
But what was supposed to be a quick investment project turned into what the Sangsters describe as a full-scale overhaul, eating up time, labor and resources.
“It was very extensive,” Vanessa Sangster said. “It had all new wiring, new electrical panels and new service. Everything inside the property is new. It was extreme.”
The Sangsters say they spent weeks commuting from Rhode Island to work on the house, but as that project escalated, other client-funded jobs sat idle.
“It was like we were told to forget about all the other jobs we had going on and just come to [the property in Salem] every day,” Calvin added. “The other projects paused, absolutely.”
Among the stalled jobs were ADU projects for three Boston-area homeowners, in Brighton, Jamaica Plain and Dorchester, all of whom eventually fired Thomas and filed complaints, reported NBC10.
And that’s not the only legal trouble. A Swampscott homeowner told NBC10 reporters that they paid more than $40,000 for an ADU that was never built, and now holds a lien on the Salem property, alleging Thomas diverted their project funds into the flip, a claim he flatly denies.
A Lynn District Court judge recently ordered Thomas to turn over financial records tied to the Salem property and detail how many ADU jobs he's completed. The court action adds to a growing list of red flags for the contractor who, according to NBC10, still promotes himself as a success story in the ADU space.
Through a statement to the news channel from his attorney, John Entner, Thomas denied any wrongdoing.
“As a general matter, my client categorically denies any wrongdoing regarding the City of Boston, the homeowners featured in the NBC10 report, or any other cities, homeowners or subcontractors,” Entner wrote. “The contracts and legal relationship between all of the parties have been clear from the start, and my client has acted well within its contractual obligations and rights at all times.”
Thomas also pushed back on accusations that he owes the Sangsters about $6,000 for their work on the Salem flip, saying all invoices have been paid.
A spokesperson for the city’s Inspectional Services Department confirmed to NBC10 that Thomas is no longer eligible for city-backed ADU projects that involve taxpayer funds.
Meanwhile, the news channel also reports that complaints from homeowners have been filed with the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office and the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation. Depending on the outcomes, Thomas could face fines or other penalties.
“He’s gonna get what’s coming to him,” said Calvin.
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Learn MoreWhat to do before hiring a contractor
Thinking about tackling a home renovation? It can be a great way to boost your property value or finally get that dream kitchen, but if you’re not careful, it can also become a money pit.
From shady contractors to surprise costs, there’s a lot that can go sideways. That’s why planning smart from the start isn’t just good advice, it’s financial self-defense.
Vet your contractor
Before you commit, take time to verify their credentials. Don’t just ask if they’re licensed, actually check with your state’s licensing board. Most states, including Massachusetts, have quick online tools to confirm whether someone’s legit.
Ask for proof of insurance and workers’ compensation
Confirm a contractor has both so that you're not on the hook if something goes wrong. And if they’re bonded? Even better. That bond could be your backup plan if the contractor walks away mid-project or doesn’t follow through.
Get everything in writing
A real contract should spell out the scope of the work, a clear payment schedule and any warranty coverage. Watch out for blank spaces or vague language. If it’s not in the contract, it doesn’t count.
Never pay 100% up front
Keep your initial deposit to between 10% and 30%, and schedule the rest of the payments around milestones, like demo, framing or final inspection. Hold onto that last payment until the job is done and you’re satisfied.
Keep a paper trail
Save every invoice, contract and email. You’ll be glad you did if you ever need to challenge a charge or settle a dispute.
Don’t forget the hidden costs
Even the best-planned renovations can uncover problems behind the walls, like water damage or outdated wiring. Set aside 10% to 20% of your budget as a cushion. That emergency fund could be the difference between a hiccup and a full-blown financial headache.
Talk early and often
Set clear expectations with your contractor, check in regularly and speak up the moment something feels off. Good communication early can help prevent bigger issues down the road.
With the right prep and a few savvy strategies, your renovation doesn’t have to be a gamble, it can be a smart investment in your home and your future.
As for the Sangsters, the experience has taken both a financial and emotional toll.
“I feel disappointed and a bit angry,” said Vanessa.
“You expect to get what’s due to you at the end of a project and [Thomas] jeopardized that not just for me but my family as well. I think he definitely needs to be held responsible for his actions.”
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