Hiring a contractor in Pennsylvania: check, red flags, complaints

Red flags when hiring

• No PA# on the ad, estimate or contract. (source: PA Home Improvement Contractor Registration System (opens in a new tab))
• A contract over $500 that isn't in writing. (source: Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (Act 132 of 2008) (opens in a new tab))
• Asking for payment before the contract is signed. (source: Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (Act 132 of 2008) (opens in a new tab))
• On a job over $5,000, a deposit of more than one-third of the price (plus special-order materials). (source: Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (Act 132 of 2008) (opens in a new tab))
• Treating registration as proof of skill. The Attorney General says it is not an endorsement. (source: PA Attorney General: Home Improvement Contractor Registration (opens in a new tab))

Full checklist: how to check a contractor before you hire

Penalties

• Home improvement fraud is a third-degree felony if more than $2,000 is involved, or a first-degree misdemeanor if $2,000 or less. It is one grade higher if the victim is 60 or older. (source: Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (Act 132 of 2008) (opens in a new tab))
• A second or later offense is a second-degree felony, whatever the amount. (source: Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (Act 132 of 2008) (opens in a new tab))

Help and complaints

• Attorney General HIC HelpLine: 1-888-520-6680, [email protected]. (source: PA Home Improvement Contractor Registration System (opens in a new tab))