Tips for Homeowners
 


…Filing a complaint against a licensed contractor:
  1. If possible, contact the contractor prior to filing the complaint.   You may be able to resolve the problem quickly and easily with the contractor without ROC intervention.   However, if the contractor is not willing to discuss or review problems with the project, call the ROC to learn about your options.

  2. When completing the complaint form, be sure to have the original signature of the complainant on it.   If you are a contractor filing the complaint, make sure the person who signs the complaint is listed on your contractor license.

  3. Include the date of the contract on the form.

  4. If filing a complaint against more than one contractor, use separate complaint forms for each one.

  5. Don't forget to include the job site address and your telephone number.    The ROC inspector will need this information to schedule a job site inspection with you.

…Avoiding construction and contracting scams:
  1. Always check with the ROC to ensure that a contractor has a current Arizona license that is in good standing.   Call 602-542-1525, or statewide outside Maricopa County at 1-888-271-9286, or visit www.azroc.gov.

  2. Never hire a contractor that solicits his work going door to door or claims he can give you a "great deal" on left-over materials.

  3. Never pay a contractor in cash only.

  4. Always require a written proposal and/or contract from anyone bidding on your job.

  5. Always ask for and check references.
…Making your Recovery Fund claim process as smooth as possible.
  1. When you hire a contractor for a job, re-check the status of the contractor's license on the same day you sign the contract.   Before you actually sign the contract/tender the deposit, call the ROC  (get the person's name)  or check the ROC Web site  (print the license screen for your records).   This will ensure the contractor's license is current at the time of the contract.

  2. Keep detailed records from beginning to end of project in a central location along with a telephone log.

  3. Get all elements of the contract in writing.   For example, if the contractor says he will move furniture, clean up, haul off debris etc., get it in writing.

  4. Never pay with cash.   If you have no payment options other than cash, such as check or money order, always get a properly executed cash receipt.

  5. Build Performance Bond coverage into all contracts on jobs larger than $30,000, unless you are financially able to risk losing the difference between what the Recovery Fund can cover ($30,000) in the event of a loss.