FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                    June 30, 2008

COUNTY TO BEGIN WRITTEN TEST FOR HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTORS

License applicants must show familiarity with applicable laws

            In its latest effort to make sure that home improvement contractors are responsible, the Department of Consumer Protection will require those seeking a county-required license to pass a written test covering basic laws and rules that apply to their work. The written test will be required for license applications received by the department as of  Tuesday, July 1. 

            “We want to make sure that licensed contractors are familiar with basic legal requirements such as when a home improvement contract must be in writing, what clauses are required to be in a contract, and the type of work that requires a license,” said Gary Brown, director of Consumer Protection. “This will help contractors avoid problems, and will offer additional protection to consumers.”

            Contractors who already have a license do not have to take the test. Nor will contractors seeking a renewal.

The test consists of 13 multiple-choice questions and 12 true/false questions. To pass the exam, an applicant must answer 17 questions correctly. No application for a license will be processed until the applicant has passed the exam.

            The test will only be given to first-time applicants for a license.

Examples of questions to be asked on the exam include:

• True or false:  The approximate start date and completion date of the work must be stated in every home improvement contract. (Correct answer is true.)
• A written contract must be used when:

a.  A permit is required. b.  The total price of the contract exceeds $500. c. The total price of the contract exceeds $1000. d. If both parties agree, a written contract is not required. (Correct answer is b.)

            “The written exam is another part of our effort to make sure that contractors are operating in compliance with applicable laws and rules,” said Brown.  “When contractors play by the rules, it’s a win-win situation for them and for consumers.”

            Further information about the new testing requirement can be obtained from the department at www.westchestergov.com or by calling (914) 995-2155.

Consumers can also go to www.westchestergov.com to search for a licensed contractor, watch a video and read a brochure on how to choose a contractor, and request a complaint history.