Westchester law requires that home improvement contractors have a county license. A list of licensed contractors is maintained by the Department of Consumer Protection. The department also has a list of renegade renovators consumers should avoid. Check whether your contractor has any outstanding judgments or liens. Other licensing laws relate to plumbers and electricians.
Additionally, if home improvement contractors directly or indirectly arranges or facilitates the financing of your home improvement contract, they must complete a disclosure form to explain their connection to the financing.
Contractor Application
Home Improvement Contractors can review the licensing law and download, utilize the fillable form and print the home improvement contractor application in English or Spanish.
If you have any questions or need help completing the home improvement contractor application, call the office of Consumer Protection at (914) 995-2155.
Lead Advisory for Home Improvement Contractors, Renovators and Painters
As of April 22, 2010, the EPA requires contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects - that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities and schools built before 1978 - to be certified; and they must follow specific lead-safe work practices to prevent lead contamination. Read more about the EPA regulations and certification. Or call 800-424-LEAD (5323) for more information.
Neighbor Notification Law
Homeowners can also get information on laws and regulations regarding pesticide usage and safety precautions when maintaining a septic tank. Westchester has a Neighbor Notification Law for homeowners that requires the notification of neighbors, with signs, when pesticides have been applied. This brochure explains the law.
Laws Relating to Home Improvement Contractors
A variety of laws have been designed to protect consumers and the environment, such as the:
- home contractor licensing law
- home contractor seizure and impound law
- leaf blower emissions law