Home Improvement (HICPA)

The Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (73 P.S. § 517.1 et seq.) protects Pennsylvania homeowners and sets requirements for all home improvement contractors.

Contractor Registration

All home improvement contractors must register with the PA Office of Attorney General, Bureau of Consumer Protection. Performing home improvement work without registration is a criminal offense.

Written contracts required for all home improvement work over $500.

Required Contract Provisions

Contractor’s registration number

Total contract price

Detailed description of work to be performed

Starting and completion dates

Right of rescission notice (3 business days)

Signatures of all parties

Payment schedule tied to work milestones

Warranty information

Right of Rescission

3 Business Days

73 P.S. § 517.7(a)(9)

Consumer has 3 business days to cancel any home improvement contract. Must be in writing. Contractor must return all payments within 10 days of cancellation.

Penalties for Violations

Criminal penalties (up to $1,000 fine and/or 1 year imprisonment per violation)

Civil liability for actual damages

Treble damages under UTPCPL (73 P.S. § 201-9.2)

Reasonable attorney’s fees

Contract voidable by consumer if contractor is unregistered

Exemptions

•Licensed architects and engineers performing professional services

•Public utilities

•Work under $500 (unless part of a larger project)

Legal Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Contractor law involves complex regulatory requirements that vary by jurisdiction. Consult with a qualified attorney before taking any legal action. All content prepared with attorney supervision.

All educational content and document templates are prepared under the supervision of a PA licensed attorney.