Protect Yourself: Pennsylvania’s Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA) 

 

Protect yourself, whether you’re hiring for a project or performing the work, every home improvement project is a significant investment, and protection starts before the first tool is picked up or the first payment is made. Pennsylvania’s Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA) sets clear, mandatory standards for contractor registration and written contracts to protect both homeowners and home improvement professionals. When both sides understand and follow the law, they protect their money, their time, their reputation, and their future.

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Home improvement projects, whether remodeling a kitchen, building a deck, installing a new HVAC system, adding a retaining wall, or replacing a roof, are major investments for homeowners and the professionals who perform the work.

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Pennsylvania’s Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA) helps homeowners and home improvement professionals understand their rights and establishes baseline requirements related to contractor registration and written contracts. The law is intended to promote transparency and consistency, not to assume bad intent or penalize professionals who may be unfamiliar with its details.

 

What Work Is Covered?

 

HICPA generally applies to residential home improvement projects over $500, including:

• Roofing and siding installation or repair

• Remodeling, repair, and renovation projects

• Installation of appliances or home systems

• Painting, flooring, and other specialty trade services

• Hardscaping projects such as retaining walls, patios, and driveways

Not Covered: HICPA does not apply to new home construction or commercial construction.

 

Why HICPA Matters

 

When HICPA requirements are not fully understood or followed, it can lead to:

• Unclear or incomplete contracts

• Project delays or disputes

• Agreements that may be difficult to enforce

In many cases, noncompliance results from limited familiarity with the law, not from malicious behavior. Clear information and awareness help reduce confusion for both homeowners and contractors.

 

The Role of the Blair/Bedford Builders Association

 

The Blair/Bedford Builders Association seeks to promote professionalism and responsible business practices within the home improvement industry. While the Association does not provide legal advice, certification, or guarantees of compliance, it serves as a resource for general information and industry awareness.

Contractors connected to the Association may have greater exposure to industry discussions and compliance considerations, but homeowners should always perform their own due diligence when hiring any contractor.

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Attend Our Free Seminar at the Blair County Home Show - Saturday, February 28th, 1:00 pm,

Lower-level, look for signage outside the show entrance.

Join us for a consumer-focused seminar to:

• Learn your rights under HICPA

• Understand what a compliant contract looks like

• Get tips for hiring responsible, professional home improvement specialists 

Quick Tip: Reserve your spot early—seminar space is limited!

 

Legal Disclaimer

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This information is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. The Blair/Bedford Builders Association does not certify, endorse, guarantee, or warrant the compliance, qualifications, or workmanship of any contractor. Homeowners and contractors are encouraged to consult qualified legal counsel or the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General regarding specific questions related to the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act or individual projects.

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Stay Informed. Protect Your Home. Hire Smart.