Norwalk, CT – April 19, 2010 – (RealEstateRama) — It’s only been a few short weeks since heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding in Connecticut, especially in shoreline communities. State Senator Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) today urged property owners in Norwalk and Darien who experienced damage from torrential rains, floods and heavy winds to be cautious and do their homework when hiring workers to do repairs and clean-up.
“Most contractors are hardworking people looking just to make a living through their trade,” said Senator Duff. “However, we all know that unscrupulous people will often try to capitalize on the misfortune of others in order to make a buck.”
Continued Senator Duff, “Though many out-of-state contractors may be looking for work in Connecticut, they must be licensed with the state to legally conduct work here. To protect yourself, your family and your property, you should take the necessary steps to verify that a contractor is licensed and in good standing with the state before choosing to hire them to work on your home.”
Contractors—including carpenters, electricians, plumbers, heating and cooling specialists, stump removers and other trades people—must be registered with the state Department of Consumer Protection to conduct work in the state. Similarly, arborists must be registered with the state Department of Environmental Protection.
Homeowners can verify the status of a contractor at the Department of Consumer Protection’s Web site by visiting www.ct.gov/dcp and click on “Verify a License.” The department can also be reached by phone at 1-800-842-2649.
Homeowners are also encouraged to ask contractors to show a copy of their Connecticut license or registration cards and insurance certificates and to ask for a list of references.
If you’ve experienced property damage or unfinished work at the hands of a registered contractor, you may qualify for restitution through the state’s Home Improvement Guaranty Fund. However, this fund is not available to homeowners who hire unregistered contractors.
For more information about hiring a home improvement contractor and the Home Improvement Guaranty Fund, visit www.ct.gov/dcp or call toll-free 1-800-842-2649.
Contact:
Press Aide
Jaclyn Falkowski
860-240-8671
Jaclyn.Falkowski (at) cga.ct (dot) gov
