How to protect yourself from home improvement scammers in PA

HARRISBURG, Pa. (WTAJ) – The Pennsylvania Attorney General is warning residents to be on the alert for home repair or improvement scams following damage left by Tropical Storm Debby and future extreme weather.

Homeowners may be targeted by scammers, and Attorney General Michelle Henry is advising residents to check if a contractor is legitimate and know their rights before committing to repairs.

“Disastrous weather may bring out scammers to try to take advantage of consumer panic to make a profit,” Attorney General Henry said in a statement. “I want Pennsylvania homeowners to know that my office is here for you. Call or email us with any questions about contractors including whether or not they are registered with our office, and please report suspicious activity and offers to us.”

The consumer alert follows extensive damage to homes and businesses when Tropical Storm Debby caused flooding in parts of Pennsylvania.

The Northern Cambria Recreation Commission and Northern Cambria Softball/Baseball board saw extensive damage to their South Complex/Ball Fields on Betts Avenue. They called on community members to help repair the damage last weekend.

WTAJ previously reported on road closures and travel restrictions during the worst of the flooding, but the full damage extent is unknown.

The attorney general warned that homeowners may see more scams related to home improvement contracting and government loans or grants.

Homeowners can check if a contractor is registered in Pennsylvania through the Attorney General’s searchable database: hicsearch.attorneygeneral.gov .

Under Pennsylvania law, contractors who performed home improvements totaling more than $5,000 in the prior taxable year are required to register with the Office.

The attorney general’s office also advises that homeowners can take proactive steps to protect themselves from home improvement scams by:

• Contacting their insurance companies, prior to agreeing to a contract, to ensure that improvements are covered under their policy.
• Arranging with their bank or credit union for a Certificate of Completion. The bank will pay the contractor for each stage of the job after the bank has approved.
• Be wary of any unsolicited sales pitches, such as from a door-to-door salesperson, or any requests for large up-front payments.

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Consumers can file a complaint online , call the office at 1-800-441-2555, or by emailing scams@attorneygeneral.gov .

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