February 2008 Informational Letter

If you are a contractor or a homeowner, this is worth reading. Did you know there is an Act in Illinois called the Home Repair and Remodeling Act that has been in effect since January 1, 2000? Its purpose is to improve communication between consumers and persons engaged in the business of home repairs or remodeling in order to “increase consumer confidence, reduce the likelihood of disputes and promote fair and honest practices in that business.” 815 ILCS 513/5 (West 2004).

Specifically, that Act states that if you are someone engaged in the business of home repair or remodeling, you SHALL provide your customers with a written contract or work order PRIOR TO initiating any work over $1,000. That document must also set forth the total cost of the project. The Act also provides that it is UNLAWFUL for any person engaged in the business of home repairs and remodeling to begin a project without first obtaining a signed contract or work order and the contractor must provide the customer with a copy of the pamphlet: “home Repair: Know Your Consumer Rights” prior to the signing of any new contract.

If you are a contractor that falls within the scope of this Act and you fail to follow its requirements, your violations of the Act could result in your losing your rights to payment for work you performed. On the other hand, if you are a consumer and your contractor did not follow the law, you may be able to defeat the contractor’s claim for remuneration.

To find out if this Act applies to you, what you need to do in order to be in compliance, or if you are a consumer having remodeling or repair work done on your home and would like to learn more about this Act, please do not hesitate to contact Nancy or me to answers any questions you might have.

Respectfully,

RIGHEIMER & TASSI, P.C.

Christine E. Righeimer

Nancy P. Tassi

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