Home Improvement Contracting

The Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation ("OCABR") regulates the registration of contractors performing improvements or renovations on detached one and two family homes. Prior to performing work on such homes, a contractor must be registered as a Home Improvement Contractor ("HIC").

CHANGE IN LAW ABOLISHES CSLs HIC REGISTRATION FEE EXEMPTION. As a result of a recent change in the law (Section 80 of Chapter 27 of the Acts of 2009), the holders of Construction Supervisors Licenses are no longer exempt from the HIC Registration fee. ALL CONTRACTORS, INCLUDING CSLs WHO ARE APPLYING FOR A HIC REGISTRATION MUST PAY A REGISTRATION FEE OF $150.00, AND A GUARANTY FUND FEE. ALL CONTRACTORS RENEWING THEIR REGISTRATION MUST PAY A RENEWAL FEE OF $100.00. All applications, inquiries or suggestions should be mailed to:

Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation
10 Park Plaza, Suite 5170
Boston, MA 02116
(617) 973-8700

There are at least four different programs and various agencies that handle complaints against residential home improvement contractors. Some of these programs have filing deadlines, so please read this sheet in its entirety.

A complaint may be filed with the OCABR against any HIC registrant. All applications and forms, including the complaint application, are available below. Prior to contacting OCABR with any questions, please review the FAQ ("Frequently Asked Questions") for further information.