For Immediate Release
January 24, 2006
Back

Senate Panel Approves Legislation to Prevent Home Improvement Scams

The Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee passed legislation Tuesday that would prevent home improvement scam artists from taking advantage of Pennsylvania consumers, according to Committee Chairman Sen. Tommy Tomlinson (R-Bucks).

Senate Bill 1000, introduced by Sen. Tomlinson in October, would require home improvement contractors to register with the Bureau of Consumer Protection in the Attorney General's Office. The Bureau would offer a toll-free number to provide consumers with registration information so a homeowner will know if they are dealing with a registered contractor.

The bill would require contracts for all work performed in people's homes that exceeds $200. The bill also provides specific criteria every home improvement contract should include to ensure that all parties understand the work to be completed, the time frame for completion and the total costs involved.

"Many of the contractors I have spoken with support my legislation because it gives them a way to protect their good name and prove that they are a reputable business owner," said Tomlinson. "A number of individuals in my area have fallen victim to scam artists who don't perform the work they are paid to do, and my legislation will crack down on this type of activity."

Senate Bill 1000 gives District Attorneys and the Attorney General strong enforcement authority for investigating and prosecuting home improvement scams. Penalties range from a misdemeanor to a felony and the revocation or suspension of registration. The bill also includes tougher penalties if the victim is 60 or older, since many scam artists target older homeowners.

CONTACT:

Fran Cleaver
(717)787-5072