Fixing up this summer? Do it wisely
Planning a renovation or repair project this summer? It’s a great idea, but choose your service provider carefully.
The Arizona Registrar of Contractors warns Kyrene Corridor homeowners to be aware that persons or companies performing construction or repair work without a contractor’s license may be contracting illegally and subject to prosecution for a class 1 misdemeanor under A.R.S. § 32-1121.
The exception to this is when the work does not require a local building permit and the total cost of the project, including labor and materials, does not exceed $750.
“The illegal operations of unlicensed contractors are a major concern for the Registrar,” said Mike Leavene, chief of investigations.
“Our mission is to promote quality construction by Arizona contractors through a licensing and regulatory system designed to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public.”
Consumers wishing to check the license status of a contractor can visit the Registrar of Contractors’ website at www.rc.state.az.us.
In addition to basic information such as address, phone, names of principals, license number, classification and status, the website offers the ability to research the bonding information and complaint histories of Arizona licensed contractors.
Here are a few recommendations from the Registrar’s office to help you avoid becoming a victim of unscrupulous contractors:
DON’T accept a contractor’s advertising or word as proof of possessing a current, valid contractor’s license. Call the ROC or visit their website at www.rc.state.az.us.
DON’T respond to the “scare tactic” door to door salesman who says he was just driving by and noticed a problem with your roof or driveway, and he just happens to have extra material on his truck. Call the ROC before allowing him to do any work or before signing any contract.
DON’T make major or full advance payments to the contractor for purchase of “tools” or “material” for your job site. Con men often do only superficial work or no work at all and never return. You then might encounter major expenses to correct the damages or problems they leave behind.
DON’T give telephone solicitors your credit card number or other personal credit information on promises of free inspections or gifts. Call the ROC, the Attorney General’s office and the Better Business Bureau to check on consumer complaints against the company.
DON’T be deterred from getting several bids from different contractors, especially on major construction or remodeling projects. Be skeptical of bids that are much lower than others obtained. Be sure all bidders possess a current contractor’s license valid for the type of work to be performed.
DON’T assume a contractor is licensed just because he says he is. Call the ROC to verify the status of the contractor’s license before signing any contract or advancing any large payments.