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County Executive Ed Day “Shield Yourself From Contracting Scammers ”

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With Spring finally in the air, we know for a fact many homeowners plan to take on projects to
either enhance their home lifestyle or the beauty of their homes, but did you know an estimated
1 in 10 people has fallen victim to Home Improvement Contracting Scams?

If you think Rockland County residents are immune to this, think again. Last fall one family was
scammed out of $55,000 and as the weather warms the Office of Consumer Protection is
already hearing scammers at it again.

It often starts out with an alleged “contractor” going door to door telling homeowners they’re
working nearby and will offer a great deal on work or explain they have a surplus of material
and propose to repair a driveway or roof at a discount.

Whether you are remodeling your kitchen, renovating your bathroom, or adding an extension to
your home, our Office of Consumer Protection recommends finding the right contractor to
ensure the success of your project by:
1. Steering clear of unsolicited contractors
2. Getting a written contract
3. Never paying until job is complete
4. And utilizing a licensed contractor

The benefits of contracting with a licensed vendor/contractor ensures a few things but first and
foremost that the contractor is insured. Without appropriate and adequate insurance coverage,
if the contractor or their employee gets injured when working on a home, the homeowner can
be responsible for damage or injury.

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Government

Rockland County Department of Consumer Protection is Warning Residents About a Resurfacing Scam

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Recent reports from local businesses and residents indicate that scammers are posing as legitimate contracting companies, falsely claiming urgent structural issues to convince homeowners to sign expensive contracts for unnecessary repairs.

In one instance, scammers impersonated a reputable roofing company, Gikas Roofing, and tricked a homeowner into signing a $78,000 contract for fraudulent roof repairs. A similar case involved an elderly woman who paid $60,000 for a roof replacement she didn’t need—only for the scammers to disappear after causing damage to her home.

“These types of scams follow a familiar pattern, with unlicensed contractors using scare tactics to rush homeowners into making costly decisions,” said Rockland County Consumer Protection Director Kimberly Von Ronn. “Our department successfully impounded a vehicle and is working closely with the company being impersonated, along with Orangetown Building and Police Departments, but we urge families to be vigilant.”

Always remember to:

  • Ask for proof of a Rockland County license and insurance. A New Jersey license does not qualify in Rockland County.
  • Do not make immediate decisions under pressure. Take time to research and compare contractors.
  • Never pay in full upfront. Legitimate contractors will provide a written contract and schedule reasonable payments.
  • If approached by an unsolicited contractor, contact Rockland County Consumer Protection immediately.

If you suspect a scam, contact the Rockland County Department of Consumer Protection at [email protected] or 845-364-3901.

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Government

Rockland County Honors Marine Corps Veteran Elizabeth Rubio with 2025 Freedom Award

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County Executive Ed Day and Director Susan Branam of the Rockland County Veterans Service Agency recognized a female veteran with the Freedom Award Monday, an annual County honor made to female veterans for outstanding service to our nation.

“Acknowledging those who have worked and sacrificed to protect the freedoms we enjoy is crucial, particularly women whose contributions to building and protecting our country have long been overlooked.” said County Executive Ed Day.

The 2025 Freedom Award was presented to Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Veteran Elizabeth “Lisa” Rubio. Rubio, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, served honorably from 2011 to 2019, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. Throughout her career, she held key roles across multiple commands, including Marine Corps Recruiting Command and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command. A dedicated leader, she supported multinational training exercises, mentored recruits, and earned multiple commendations, including two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals.

After her military service, Lisa continued her commitment to others as a Veterans Service Officer in the County of Rockland, securing $12 million in benefits for local veterans and surviving spouses. Now pursuing a law degree, she remains devoted to advocacy and service.

“I am so proud to present this award to Lisa who not only has been a trailblazer as a female Marine, but a dedicated Veteran Service Officer, and now is completing her first year in law school. I have no doubt that she will continue to do well and serve as an inspiration to future generations,” said Veterans Service Agency Director, Susan Branam.

“We thank Lisa for her bravery and continued commitment to our residents. We are proud to list your name among the women recipients of the Rockland County Freedom Award in years past,” concluded County Executive Ed Day.

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