As we continue celebrating National Consumer Protection Week, the Erie County Office of Consumer Protection is showcasing the five categories of consumer complaints received by the New York State Division of Consumer Protection for 2022. The next topic we are highlighting is home improvement complaints which was the fourth most reported complaint for 2022.
The following information was provided in a press release from Governor Hochul on March, 3, 2023:
Home Improvement: Complaints related to home improvement, repair services and contractors.
For example, a consumer in Niagara County hired a franchise painting company to repair holes in a few walls and repaint the interior of their home. The work done was covered by warranty, so when some of the tape used to patch the holes began to peel, the consumer tried to contact the company for repair. Unfortunately, the franchise company had since gone out of business. The consumer tried contacting the parent company multiple times but did not receive a reply. DCP reached out to the parent company on behalf of the consumer and was able to arrange to have the repair work completed under warranty and at no cost to the consumer.
Consumers should:
- Get at least three estimates from reputable, insured contractors that include a list of the materials, price and services to be provided for the job.
- Request and check references from the contractor. Look up the contractor through the Better Business Bureau and other websites and speak to local suppliers and friends to see if they have information that may be helpful. If you live in New York City, Westchester, Nassau, Suffolk, Orange, Putnam or Rockland Counties, check your local consumer affairs office. If you live in another county, check with your local municipality to see if they license home improvement contractors.
- If the contract price is more than $500, New York State law requires a written contract that includes the contractor contact information (including phone number), price, payment schedule, start and end dates and a thorough description of the work to be done.
- Negotiate a payment schedule tied to the completion of specific stages of the job. Never pay the full price up front and try to limit the amount of any deposit made prior to the commencement of work.
- Ensure you receive and save copies of all warranties, including those on the materials used.
- Know your rights. Consumers have three days to cancel after signing a contract for home improvements. All cancellations must be in writing.
For more information, please refer to the additional resources on our website regarding NYS General Business Law ยง771 and home improvement contracts.
Please contact our office if you have questions or need assistance with a consumer protection related issue. The Erie County Office of Consumer Protection can be reached by phone at 716-858-1987 or via email to consumerprotection@erie.gov. Consumer Protection complaints can also be submitted through our website.
