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Pickett Warns Residents to Be Alert for Home Improvement Scams
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9/26/2011 11:52:00 AM
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TOWANDA, PA -- In the aftermath of the flooding caused by Tropical Storm Lee, many residents are in need of contractors to help with home repairs and Rep. Tina Pickett (R-Bradford/Sullivan/Susquehanna) is cautioning homeowners about repair scams and to learn all they can before work begins.
“Every year, thousands of Pennsylvanians file consumer complaints about home improvement contractors who take money and fail to perform satisfactory construction or repairs,” Pickett said. “I strongly urge consumers to research a contractor before giving them money and allowing them to do any work.”
There are several things consumers should look out for to protect themselves from disreputable or fraudulent home improvement contractors.
Contractors who come to a home and point out specific problems should be met with caution.
If contactors arrive in an unmarked truck or van and refuse to provide proof of insurance, it is safe to say they may not be reputable contractors.
Consumers should make sure the contractor can provide at least three or four references and is registered with the state and local government.
Consumers should obtain a written contract that includes a start and finish date and a three-day, right-to-cancel notice. Penalty clauses for late completion have also proven helpful in ensuring timely projects.
Individuals should never sign a blank contract or hire a contractor who does not have a business card or local phone number and address.
Final payments should be withheld until work is finished and homeowners are completely satisfied.
In 2008, the Legislature passed the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act. The law requires that all contractors who perform at least $5,000 worth of home improvements per year register with the attorney general’s office.
A contractor’s registration number must appear in any advertisement used by the contractor. For more information on consumer protection and a list of registered contractors, visit the Pennsylvania attorney general’s website at www.attorneygeneral.gov/hic.aspx
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