New City, NY – As home improvement season kicks into high gear, Rockland County residents must stay vigilant against a growing threat: crooked contractors. County Executive Ed Day and Consumer Protection Director Kim Von Ronn have issued a stern warning after a local family was scammed out of $90,000 by a fraudulent contractor.
These types of scams are unfortunately common, with an estimated 1 in 10 people falling victim to home improvement contracting fraud. This year alone, the Rockland County Office of Consumer Protection has reported over $200,000 in losses due to these deceitful practices.
“These individuals can often be hard to catch, and the money stolen harder to reclaim, which is why I stress to our families that prevention is key,” said County Executive Ed Day. “A little amount of due diligence will go a long way to protecting yourself from falling victim.”
To avoid becoming another statistic, Director Kim Von Ronn offers the following essential advice:
- Steer clear of unsolicited contractors.
- Get a written contract.
- Never pay until the job is complete.
- Utilize a licensed contractor.
“The benefits of contracting with a licensed vendor/contractor ensure a few things but first and foremost that the contractor is insured,” Von Ronn explained. “Without appropriate and adequate insurance coverage, if the contractor or their employee gets injured when working on a home, the homeowner can be responsible for damage or injury.”
Here are some additional tips to safeguard your investment:
- Every home improvement project over $250 requires a written contract.
- A down payment should not exceed $1,000 or 15% of the contract price, whichever is less, unless otherwise agreed upon in writing.
If conflicts arise, the Office of Consumer Protection can assist with dispute resolution and mediation. Complaints about poor workmanship or unlicensed vendors can lead to investigations, potentially bringing the responsible parties to criminal court. In severe cases, the Office has the authority to impound vehicles under Rockland County Local Law Chapter 286-21(H), which was introduced by County Executive Ed Day during his time in the legislature.
In 2023, the Rockland County Office of Consumer Protection investigated 617 complaints and returned $66,000 to homeowners. This shows their commitment to protecting residents from fraudulent practices.
Residents with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the Office of Consumer Protection at (845) 364-3901 or by email at CPLCAL@co.rockland.ny.us.
By following these guidelines and remaining cautious, Rockland County residents can help protect themselves from the financial and emotional toll of contractor scams. Remember, a little diligence goes a long way in ensuring that your home improvement projects are completed safely and legally.