Shield Yourself From Contracting Scammers
With Spring finally in the air, we know for a fact many homeowners plan to take on projects to either enhance their home lifestyle or the beauty of their homes, but did you know an estimated 1 in 10 people has fallen victim to Home Improvement Contracting Scams?
If you think Rockland County residents are immune to this, think again. Last fall one family was scammed out of $55,000 and as the weather warms our Office of Consumer Protection is already hearing scammers at it again.
It often starts out with an alleged “contractor” going door to door telling homeowners they’re working nearby and will offer a great deal on work or explain they have a surplus of material and propose to repair a driveway or roof at a discount.
Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen, renovating your bathroom, or adding an extension to your home, our Office of Consumer Protection recommends finding the right contractor to ensure the success of your project by:
- Steering clear of unsolicited contractors
- Getting a written contract
- Never paying until job is complete
- And utilizing a licensed contractor
The benefits of contracting with a licensed vendor/contractor ensures a few things but first and foremost that the contractor is insured. Without appropriate and adequate insurance coverage, if the contractor or their employee gets injured when working on a home, the homeowner can be responsible for damage or injury.
A license ensures that the contractor is qualified as licensed contractors must meet a certain number of years of work experience in the trade, they are seeking a license for. For example: An individual seeking a home improvement license specifically in rough carpentry must show that their either had graduated from a technical school and have three (3) years working in the trade, or they must show they have five (5) years of experience working in the trade. The contractor seeking a license must also pass an open book exam.
There have been consumer complaints reported to our office of terrible workmanship from unlicensed vendors, costing the consumer more money to remediate the damage done on their property. There have also been other instances where an unlicensed vendor would promise to perform work but scam the consumer out of money instead. Both situations in which our office would investigate and bring the responsible party to Criminal Court.
Engaging with unlicensed contractors is done at the homeowner’s own risk. We strongly encourage consumers to verify is a contractor is duly licensed in Rockland.
Once you have decided on a contractor, also keep in mind:
- Every home improvement project over $250 requires a written contract. The contract should be as specific as possible as to encompass all the work to be performed.
- Should the contractor require a down payment, it shall not exceed $1,000 or 15% of the contract price, whichever is less. There are some exceptions to this, but they must be stated within the written contract and agreed upon.
- If a conflict arises between the consumer and business, Consumer Protection can assist with the dispute and mediation process.
Our office is here for your protection, and they will be a strong advocate for you. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our office at (845) 364-3901 or via email at [email protected].
