Marina
A Wichita couple is facing financial and emotional stress after investing more than $165,000 into a backyard deck and patio project that remains unfinished.
What was supposed to be a luxury addition to their home has turned into a legal and financial battle with Acute Construction Services. The case highlights broader concerns about contractor accountability and consumer protection in Kansas.
The Project That Went Wrong
Rodney Stewart and his wife signed a contract with Danny Telford of Acute Construction Services to build a high-end deck and patio. The couple was prepared to spend big, agreeing to an estimated $264,000 project cost.
- May 2025: Two checks totaling more than $80,000 were paid upfront.
- July 2025: Two additional checks amounting to $84,000 were issued.
Despite the large investment, all the couple has to show is unfinished concrete work in their backyard—far short of the promised deck.
Timeline of Payments and Work Done
| Date | Payment Made | Work Completed |
|---|---|---|
| May 2025 | $80,000+ | Initial preparation |
| July 2025 | $84,000 | Concrete poured |
| August 2025 | N/A | Project stalls; issues |
Stewart says, “If you look out there, there’s not $85,000 worth of work done.”
Concrete Controversy
One of the major issues involves the quality of the concrete poured on-site. Stewart and a subcontractor claim the material was used despite warnings it was already starting to set due to a pump truck malfunction.
- The result was unlevel, cracked concrete.
- Stewart insists it must be torn out and replaced.
- A subcontractor confirmed that they advised against pouring, but the work was pushed forward under pressure.
Acute Construction Services later sent a letter suggesting that “minor surface cracks and imperfections” are normal, offering limited repairs if the Stewarts responded by a set deadline. Unfortunately, the couple was on vacation when the letter arrived.
Contractor Response and Legal Steps
Acute Construction Services has disputed several of the Stewarts’ claims. Through an attorney, the company argued that the facts are in dispute and insisted that resolution should come through negotiation rather than public statements.
Meanwhile, Stewart reports that communication with the contractor has ceased and that work crews have not returned to his property. He has filed a claim with the contractor’s insurance company, hoping to recover at least part of the $165,000 already spent.
Emotional and Financial Impact
Instead of enjoying their dream backyard, the couple is left with unfinished and unusable space. Stewart says, “I’ve just got to start all over again and see if I can get this thing done as soon as possible, because I want to enjoy my house and I can’t right now.”
Hiring a new contractor means additional expenses, further compounding the financial hit. For now, the Stewarts are stuck in limbo, waiting for a potential insurance resolution.
Broader Consumer Protection Concerns
This case underscores the importance of:
- Carefully vetting contractors and verifying their track records.
- Documenting agreements and maintaining clear communication.
- Insurance and legal recourse when projects go wrong.
With backyard renovations and outdoor living projects becoming increasingly popular, homeowners across Kansas may look at this story as a cautionary tale.
The Wichita couple’s ordeal reflects how quickly a dream project can become a nightmare when large sums of money and unfinished work collide.
As the Stewarts push forward with insurance claims and legal options, their experience serves as a warning for others: always proceed with caution when making major home investments.