CONNECTICUT, USA — With the arrival of spring and soon summer, homeowners often feel the overwhelming urge to make some home improvement to freshen up their space.
The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) reminded the public to be wary of fraud and scams as they prepare for their upcoming home improvement projects.
DCP said they receive more than 1,000 complaints each year regarding home improvements—complaints relating to deposits and a failure to complete contracted work being at the top.
“Do your research, brush up on what does and does not qualify as home improvement work, as well as what type of work might require a licensed tradesperson, understand what should be included in your contract, and the best way to pay a deposit," said Consumer Protection Commissioner Bryan T. Cafferelli.
So, where do you start?
Here's what DCP says:
- Ensure their contractor is registered. Registrations can be verified by visiting www.elicense.ct.gov. Hiring a registered contractor can help consumers gain access to the home improvement guaranty fund should something go wrong.
- Check for references. If a contractor won’t provide references upon request – that’s a red flag. Consumers should ask for references from people who have completed similar projects. Talk to trusted friends, family, and neighbors, and search online and on social media to see who others in your community recommend – or don’t recommend. It’s also a good idea to check litigation history online by visiting the Connecticut Judicial Branch website.
- Have a written contract – it’s the law. Contractors should never start work without a signed contract. Consumers should ask any questions they have before signing their contract to clarify things like the project timeline and payment plan. Remember, you have a three-day right to cancel home improvement contracts in the State of Connecticut.
- Be cautious with deposits. Consumers should pay deposits using a traceable form of payment, like a check, Venmo or Zelle. Never pay in cash, gift cards or another untraceable payment method. Consumers are also advised to only pay a small deposit upfront. A best practice is to pay one-third up front, one-third part-way through the project, and the final third once the work has been completed.
- Check on the building permit. Check with your town building official to confirm a permit has been pulled by the contractor. Permits are an additional form of consumer protection, ensuring projects will be completed in accordance with the most up-to-date building codes. Building officials should also check Home Improvement Contractor registrations to add a second measure of protection.
- Remember, if an offer sounds too good to be true – it probably is. If someone shows up at your door and offers to give you a deal on work because they “just completed a job in your neighborhood, and have left-over supplies,” or are “offering a deal,” but only if you agree immediately and provide a sizable down payment, don’t fall for it. It’s almost never the bargain you think it is.
- When appropriate, hire a licensed tradesperson. Skilled work often done as part of a home improvement project (such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC) will likely require a more specific license that involves additional training and certification. Tradesperson credentials can be verified by visiting www.elicense.ct.gov
Home improvement contractors and skilled trades are credentialed with DCP, and consumers who have complaints may file with the department by visiting www.ct.gov/DCP/complaint.
Jennifer Glatz is a digital content producer at FOX61 News. She can be reached at jglatz@fox61.com.
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