Home Improvement Contractor Scams

10 Ways to Protect Yourself

1. Request the contractor’s Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) Registration number
2. Research contractor registration status and disciplinary history at ContractorHub.mass.gov to make an informed decision
3. Know that by law, any website or advertising must have the contractor’s HIC registration number displayed
4. Don’t hire an unregistered contractor to work on your home
5. Don’t pay more than 1/3 the estimated cost upfront, unless special order materials are needed
6. Never pay in cash
7. Always have a written contract signed by both parties
8. Require that the contractor pull the building permit
9. Get references and check them
10. Ask for proof of insurance

Important Note
If a contractor refuses to provide you with the information listed here, find someone else who will.

Review our Homeowner Resources section for other helpful information.