DECEMBER 7, 2011
Statewide Craigslist Advertising Sweep
During the month of November the Registrar of Contractors monitored the various Craigslist websites across the state. As a result, the Registrar of Contractors initiated 87 investigations into unlicensed contractor advertising. Advertising to perform services that require a contractor’s license is a Class 1 Misdemeanor. The Registrar of Contractors routinely investigates unlicensed contracting by checking newspapers, magazines, websites, and tradeshows.
The Registrar of Contractors advises homeowners to protect themselves by hiring only licensed contractors. Licensed contractors offer many protections to the property owner. For example, licensed contractors must pass a trade exam and demonstrate adequate experience to perform the construction authorized by their license. Licensed contractors also must possess insurance and bonds that provide financial protection if an accident occurs on your property, or the work doesn’t comply with minimum construction standards.
“Protecting the people of Arizona from illegal contracting is our top priority”, said William Mundell, Director of the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.
Homeowners can protect themselves by:
Consulting the Arizona Registrar of Contractors, www.azroc.gov, to ensure the contractor is licensed.
Asking for written estimates from at least three contractors.
Requesting a list of references, and checking them before agreeing to hire anyone.
Making sure the scope of the project, the price and any other relevant terms are spelled out in a written contract.
Avoiding contractors who require large upfront payments.
Never making a hurried decision. No reputable contractor will pressure you into a quick hiring decision.
Other tips about hiring qualified contractors can be found at www.azroc.gov.
For more information, or to request an interview with Director Mundell, contact Tyler Palmer, Public Information Officer of the Arizona Registrar of Contractors at 602-771-6710.
