I stay away from contractors and rehab as I have zero knowledge in that department. 

Called and emailed several departments/people with every new person that finally replied sending me to a different person/department.

I encourage all others who have been swindled or have had similar experiences to share them too and to submit complaints to the Better Business Bureau, Department of Consumer Affairs, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, State Board of Accountancy, Federal Trade Commission, Police Department’s Financial Crime Unit, and the District Attorney.

Call the planning department.

So if they had a 25% cap and were at 25%, then you are out of luck.With that aside, you also have to check with building department as sometimes they may not allow permits to be issued for some of these conversions as they do not meet code. 

This person / company was frequently well known by the Department of Environmental Quality, and may have been employed by them prior to their striking out and forming their own wetland consulting company.

Thanks Dear Bryant excellent response thank you.

Give 24 hours notice, you're not asking him... you're telling him. 2) If you are worried, yes you can call the local police department, explain the situation and request a police escort, it they decline at least you have it on record that you requested.

I encourage all others who have been swindled or have had similar experiences to share them too and to submit complaints to the Better Business Bureau, Department of Consumer Affairs, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, State Board of Accountancy, Federal Trade Commission, Police Department’s Financial Crime Unit, and the District Attorney.

If the fire department says it is safe to enter and you get the insurance adjuster out you will know when you can repair so i would give them the time before to get thier stuff.