Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act
On July 1, 2009, Pennsylvania's new Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA) went into effect. It places registration, advertisement, and contract requirements on contractors; criminalizes home improvement fraud; and sets forth several prohibited acts.
For Consumers
The Bureau of Consumer Protection has posted helpful information about the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act and is encouraging consumers to use registered contractors when deciding to invest in home improvements. As of July 1, 2009, consumers will be able to verify a home improvement contractor's registration by calling the Bureau's toll-free hotline at 800-441-2555, or by visiting Home Improvement Consumer Information | Contractor Search.
For Contractors
To be compliant with the new law, home improvement contractors must register by
July 1, 2009 with the Bureau of Consumer Protection of the Pennsylvania Office
of the Attorney General. For more information, see
Contractor Registration Information
or visit the
Home Improvement Contractor Registration website.
As of July 1, Franklin Township will no longer require contractors performing home improvements to obtain a license issued by Franklin Township. The Township will now require home improvement contractors to submit a copy of their registration certificate when submitting a building permit application. If you have questions, please contact the Township.
– Rev. July 20, 2009