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BBB of Western Pennsylvania wants homeowners and property owners in Pennsylvania to be familiar with the state’s Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act before hiring a home improvement company for a repair or renovation project.
Consumers should do their due diligence and know their rights in order to make a confident hiring decision.
Here are your Better Business Bureau of Western PA’s top tips for hiring a contractor you can trust:
Verify registration. The PA Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act requires all Pennsylvania contractors, who perform at least $5,000 worth of home improvements per year or $500 worth of work on a consumer’s home, to register with the Bureau of Consumer Protection. The company’s registration number should be listed on all business advertisements. You can verify a contractor’s state registration by calling 888-520-6680 or searching home improvement consumer information.
Confirm insurance. To have an active registration number in Pennsylvania, contractors must show proof of insurance. However, homeowners should also request proof that the company has up-to-date insurance covering workers’ compensation, property damage and personal liability. Consumers have the right to request current copies of insurance certificates from the company’s insurer for their records.
Research contractors. Search local BBB Accredited contractors for free on BBB.org. Discover basic company information, a company’s BBB rating (ranging from A+ to F), three-year complaint history, real customer reviews and more. Ask friends and neighbors for referrals.
Cost compare. Solicit at least three bids from prospective contractors and request references.
Know the "Rule of Thirds". Never pay for an entire job in advance or pay cash to a salesperson or contractor. Pennsylvania law states for a contract of more than $5,000, a contractor cannot accept a deposit in excess of 1/3 of the contract price, or 1/3 of the contract price plus the cost of special order materials, as designated in the written contract.
Understand your contract and warranties. Before signing a contract, verify there are no blank spaces or statements you don’t understand. Pennsylvania law requires that a copy of the contract be given to you at the time of signing. Contracts that are entered into as a result of a contact at your home, either in person or by telephone, can be canceled within three business days following the date of the contract.
Avoid hiring contractors who lack identification, use high-pressure sales tactics and claim that no contract is needed. Rresearch companies in your community and find BBB Accredited businesses.
Find home improvement contractors near you.
Look to businesses that adhere to the BBB Standards for Trust. Read more about BBB's Accreditation Standards.