The regulator in charge of home construction in Ontario is freezing the assets of an Ottawa company that abruptly shut down, leaving homeowners, contractors and employees in the lurch.

The Home Construction Regulatory Authority said Tuesday it is freezing the assets of Highbridge Construction, which suddenly ceased operations earlier this month. The company’s licence has also been suspended.

“A licensed home builder is expected to be financially responsible,” HCRA CEO and registrar Wendy Moir said in a news release. “We are determined to find out what happened, and especially what happened to the purchasers’ deposit funds.

“Highbridge Construction claims that the money is gone but will not provide the HCRA with any documentation to back up those claims.”

The Orléans-based construction company suddenly closed its doors Feb. 3, walking away from half-built homes and renovation projects worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Homeowners, employees and contractors have all said they are owed thousands of dollars. The company also owes its landlord $106,000 rent for its storefront space on St. Joseph Boulevard, according to a notice of distress posted on the door.

Ottawa police have launched an investigation into the company. The owners have not responded to requests for comment.

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