For Immediate Release
6/05/07

CONTACT:

Fran Cleaver
717-787-5072

Senate Adopts Legislation to Crack Down on Home Repair Con Artists

The Senate adopted legislation today that will help to protect state residents from home improvement scam artists. The legislation, introduced by Sen. Tommy Tomlinson (R-Bucks) who chairs the Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee, would give local law enforcement officials the tools they need to crack down on disreputable contractors.  It also sets down strict criminal penalties and even tougher sanctions if the victim is a senior citizen.

"During hearings on this issue, I have heard many complaints from homeowners, particularly senior citizens, who have lost money through home repair scams," Tomlinson said.  "In many cases, scam operators promise to make repairs and leave town after they receive a deposit.  Or they do a shoddy job, and then can't be located to fix the problem repair or refuse to do so."

Tomlinson's legislation would require home improvement contractors to register with the Attorney General's Bureau of Consumer Protection.  The Bureau would also maintain a toll-free number under which consumers could check on the registration status of a contractor.

The bill would also require home improvement contracts for all work that exceeds $500. And it would set down specific criteria for home improvement contracts to ensure that all parties understand the work to be completed, the time frame for completion and the total costs involved.

"This legislation will not only crack down on scam artists, but it will help to protect the good name of reputable business owners," said Tomlinson. "There are many good home repair companies and contractors – but in a small portion of cases, scam operators are not living up to their obligations.   This bill will target disreputable contractors and ensure that homeowners are not victimized."

Senate Bill 100 gives District Attorneys and the Attorney General strong enforcement authority for investigating and prosecuting home improvement scams. Those who violate the law could face a possible misdemeanor or felony conviction, and the revocation or suspension of their registration. The bill also includes tougher penalties if the victim is 60 or older, since many scam artists target older homeowners.

"These professional con artists target all home owners, but particularly senior citizens by playing on their fears and emotions," Tomlinson said.  "Through this legislation, we hope to send a strong message that Pennsylvania will prosecute those who attempt to deceive consumers."