The Requirements for a Home Improvement Contract in New Jersey
The state of New Jersey takes consumer fraud seriously, including any fraud perpetrated by persons offering home improvement services to homeowners. Under New Jersey’s Home Improvement Practices Act, this includes general contractors, landscaping contractors, clearing or restoration contractors and anyone performing home improvement or repair service for a homeowner. All home improvement contractors must annually register with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs and may be denied permits if they have not done so.
Home Improvement Contracts in New Jersey
Under the provisions of the Home Improvement Act, any contract for home improvement services in excess of $500 must be in writing. Furthermore, the written agreement must include the following:
- The legal name, address and state registration number of the contractor, as well as any subcontractors
- When the work will start, as well as a projected completion date
- A full and accurate description of all work to be done and all services to be provided
- The full amount that the homeowner will be charged for all services and materials, including any potential finance charges
- A full description of all supplies and materials the contractor anticipates using to complete the project
- A description of any type of security interest the contractor will take regarding the payment for home improvement services
- Any guarantee that the contractor offers regarding the services provided
The contractor must advise the homeowner of the right to cancel the contract any time within three days of signing. The contractor must also give the homeowner a copy of his or her general liability insurance policy.
Contact Attorney David J. Karbasian
Contact our office online or call us at 856-667-4666 / 856-600-HURT to schedule an appointment. Your first consultation is without cost or obligation. The sooner you call, the sooner you can move forward with your claim. We can accommodate evening or weekend meeting requests and will come to your home or the hospital, if necessary.
