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Rockland County Warns Residents Of Crooked Contractors Family Scammed Out Of $90 K

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In a recent scheme, a Rockland County family was scammed out of $90,000 by a contractor who promised to renovate their yard while the family was away on vacation but never did and has since disappeared. So far this year, the Rockland County Office of Consumer Protection indicates families have been scammed out of over $200,000.

Unfortunately, these types of scams are common with an estimated 1 in 10 people falling victim to Home Improvement Contracting Scams. 

“These individuals can often be hard to catch, and the money stolen harder to reclaim, which is why I stress to our families that prevention is key,” said County Executive Ed Day. “A little amount of due diligence will go a long way to protecting yourself from falling victim.”

Office of Consumer Protection Director Kim Von Ronn urges families to always:

  • Steer clear of unsolicited contractors
  • Get a written contract
  • Never pay until job is complete
  • And utilize 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,” explained Director Von Ronn. “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.”

Once you decide on a contractor, keep in mind:

  • Every home improvement project over $250 requires a written contract. 
  • A down payment shall not exceed $1,000 or 15% of the contract price, whichever is less. Exceptions to this must be stated within the written contract and agreed upon.

If a conflict arises between the consumer and business, Consumer Protection can assist with the dispute and mediation process.

Complaints regarding terrible workmanship from unlicensed vendors or an unlicensed vendor scamming a consumer out of money for an uncompleted job can also be investigated by our Office of Consumer Protection resulting in bringing the responsible party to Criminal Court. The Office of Consumer Protection also can impound vehicles in these scenarios thanks to Rockland County Local Law Chapter 286-21(H) which was sponsored by County Executive Ed Day during his time serving in the Rockland County Legislature.

In 2023, the Rockland County Office of Consumer Protection investigated 617 complaints and returned $66,000 to homeowners.

Residents with questions or concerns can contact their Office of Consumer Protection at (845) 364-3901 or by email at [email protected].

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Senator Weber Releases Statement Regarding Congestion Pricing Termination By The Federal Government

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“Thank you to President Trump and his administration for ending congestion pricing. Rockland County has been treated like an ATM for the MTA for far too long, and we refuse to be a doormat any longer. Fighting against this unfair toll has been one of my biggest priorities while running for and serving in the New York State Senate. Now, we must ensure that congestion pricing remains a thing of the past—for the sake of our hardworking Rockland County commuters.”

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Government

Rockland County Office Of The Aging Has Partnered With Legal Services Of The Hudson Valley

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Legal Services of the Hudson Valley provide comprehensive civil legal services to low-income individuals and their family at no cost. LSHV’s mission is to protect rights, promote justice, and ensure equal access to legal assistance for all.

For more information and to schedule an appointment please call LSHV @ 845-476-3831 or Rockland County Office Of The Aging @ 845-364-2110

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