Speakers Corner: Homeowners warning others of contractor

Overview

Homeowners across the Greater Toronto Area—including Niagara Falls, Hamilton, and York Region—say renovation contractor Omid Abbasi (formerly operating as Dreamland Inc.) took thousands of dollars upfront but did not complete the contracted work.

Many report being unable to reach him, saying he doesn’t answer or return calls, leaving projects unfinished or in poor condition.

Reported cases

• Muneesh and Karuna Malik: Paid nearly $10,000 over two years ago for promised renovations (including floors, kitchen, and other items), with a deadline described as last November. Homeowners say that months later the work is still incomplete, citing visible problems in both the flooring and kitchen.

• Mike and Terry Holiday (Niagara Falls): Paid about $12,000 and estimate less than 50% of the work was completed. They also say work needs to be redone.

• Former hired workers: Claim they are waiting for back pay after working for Abbasi.

Additional reports and business background

City News reports similar complaints from at least four other homeowners across the GTA, and police reports have been filed in multiple regions.

The segment also notes that Abbasi’s company reportedly has an F rating with the Better Business Bureau, and that, according to LinkedIn, he has started a similar business under a new name.

Attempts to contact Abbasi

City News documents attempts to reach Abbasi. In one call, he allegedly told a former client he would complete the remaining work and blamed delays on COVID lockdowns, stating he had a schedule.

However, homeowners interviewed say the excuses continued for months without confirmed completion dates. When Abbasi claimed he had receipts/proof, the report says City News was left waiting for the documents even after requesting them via text.

Outcome and consumer advice

Some homeowners say they are cutting their losses, continuing with police complaints, and working with the Ontario Ministry of Government and Consumer Services.

The segment closes with consumer guidance, including:

• Get multiple referrals
• Verify contractors beyond just phone calls
• Where possible, visit completed work sites before hiring

Presenters / contributors

• Pat Taney (City News)
• Speakers Corner homeowners and former workers (unnamed beyond first names), including:
  • Muneesh Malik
  • Karuna Malik
  • Mike Holiday
  • Terry Holiday
  • Other contributors referenced as former workers