Senate News Update
From Senator Jane Earll
May 5, 2007

Home Repair Contractors, Fraud and You

When winter weather finally gave way to warmer temperatures, it offered many of us a chance to take a fresh look at those home improvement projects we've been avoiding.

That means home improvement contractors are seeing an increase in calls from potential customers.  The vast majority of contractors are hardworking and honest, but some are not.  So, unfortunately, it also means an increase in calls to the Attorney General's Office, where complaints are filed against contractors who take money and don't do any of the work or perform unsatisfactory construction or repairs.

These unscrupulous contractors tend to target senior citizens.

Through the years, the General Assembly has passed many laws designed to prevent dishonest contractors from taking advantage of homeowners, especially senior citizens.  But the best prevention against fraud and scams is informed consumers.

First, it's wise to stay away from any contractor who doesn't have a business card or local phone number and address.  The business should have an actual physical address, not just a P.O. Box. Avoid any contractor who refuses to give you names and phone numbers of references.

Don't feel pressured by contractors who make special or limited price offers. It's your house and your money – you're the boss.  Take your time.  When you select a contractor, make sure they sign a written contract that includes a start and finish date and a three-day-right to cancel notice.

Others things to look out for: 

• Unsolicited, traveling contractors who come to your home and point out specific problems you haven't noticed yourself.
• Contractors who arrive in an unmarked truck or van and who refuse to provide proof of insurance and references when requested.
• Contractors claiming "I've just done a job nearby and have some material left over, so I can give you a great deal on the job." 

These tips and additional information on how to select a home improvement contractor can be found at Attorney General Tom Corbett's web site,  www.attorneygeneral.gov.  To report a fraudulent contractor, call the Attorney General's Bureau of Consumer Protection (BCP) hotline at 1-800-441-2555, or contact the Erie BCP office at 871-4371.  The Erie office is located in the Renaissance Center, 1001 State St., 10th Floor, Erie, PA  16501.  It is open from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday.  The web site is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Don't let a few bad apples prevent you from hiring a qualified contractor to undertake a home improvement project.  If you take the precautions recommended by the Attorney General's Office, you'll make it extremely difficult for the con artists to take advantage of you.

You waited a long time for some genuine, spring weather.  It's the perfect time to fix up the home and garden.

As always, if you have any questions on this or another state government matter, please do not hesitate to contact my office directly at (814) 453-2515.