County law requires contractors to be licensed 

Westchester law requires that home improvement contractors have a county license. A list of licensed contractors is maintained by the Department of Consumer Protection. The department also has a list of renegade renovators you should avoid. Other licensing laws relate to plumbers and electricians.

In fact, Westchester County has joined other regional Consumer Protection Agencies and district attorney offices to ensure the on-going effort of multi-county home improvement contractor enforcement.

Additionally, home improvement contractors who directly or indirectly arrange or facilitate the financing of a home improvement contract must complete a disclosure form to explain their connection to the financing. Your consumers' bill of rights clearly outlines this requirement and provides a form for your use.

Homeowners can also get information on laws and regulations regarding pesticide usage and safety precautions when maintaining a septic tank. Westchester has a Neighbor Notification Law for homeowners that requires the notification of neighbors, with signs, when pesticides have been applied. This brochure explains the law.

Contractor Application 

Home Improvement Contractors can download and print the home improvement contractor application. Contractors must also review the Worker's Compensation Board requirements that took effect Dec. 1, 2008 and which requires the form CE-200 and has established a new procedure for obtaining the approved form.