Selecting a Contractor

If you are looking for information on local contractors for heating and cooling installations, ask Adams Electric's Energy Use Specialists.

Note: Adams Electric does not guarantee any contractor's work. Please refer to the State Builders Code for all contractor regulations or the State Attorney Generals Office Web site for a list of state registered contractors.

Find a licensed Pennsylvania Contractor

Where can I find a registered contractor in Pennsylvania?

• All contractors must display their official registration number on all contracts, estimates, proposals, and advertisements distributed within the Commonwealth.
• To verify a contractor's registration, visit http://www.attorneygeneral.gov/hicsearch/ or call toll free 888/520-6680.

Home Improvement Information from Pa. Attorney General Tom Corbett

http://attorneygeneral.gov/hiccon.aspx?id=4553

What is home improvement fraud?
Home improvement fraud occurs when:

• A contractor intentionally provides false or misleading information to convince a consumer to enter into an agreement for home improvements.
• A contractor receives payment and fails to provide the services or materials.
• A contractor damages a person's property in order to solicit an agreement for services or materials.
• A contractor alters a contract or other documents without the consent of the consumer.
• A contractor publishes false or deceptive advertisements.
• A contractor misrepresents material as special order material or misrepresents the cost of special order material.
• A contractor represents himself or herself as an employee of a governmental unit or public utility.

What must be included in a home improvement contract?

• The contract must be in writing and include the contractor's registration number.
• The entire agreement between the contractor and the consumer including the date of the transaction.
• The name, telephone number, and address of the contractor and subcontractors.
• A description of the work to be performed including the approximate starting and completion dates of the project.
• The total sales price due under contract.
• The amount of any down payment plus any amount paid in advance for the purchase of special order materials.
• The amount of liability insurance coverage maintained by the contractor.
• The toll-free number maintained by the Bureau of Consumer Protection.
• A notice of the consumer's right to rescind the contract.

What are my rights?

• A home improvement contractor must provide you with a copy of the complete contract free of charge.
• You have the right to rescind your home improvement contract without penalty within three business days of the signing date, except as provided under law for emergency situations.
• A home improvement contract is not enforceable against a consumer if it does not include all of the information required by law.
• A contractor may not demand or receive any payment for a home improvement before the home improvement contract is signed.

Know the Law: PENNSYLVANIA HOME IMPROVEMENT CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT

PA Builders Association: This site provides information regarding Pennsylvania's statewide regulations for building and construction. The site also provides tips on finding a reputable contractor.

Review some tips for choosing a contractor from Energy Star