Frequently Asked Questions

A.  We protect Rockland County residents and businesses by enforcing consumer protection laws, licensing home improvement, plumbing, HVAC, refrigeration, and fire protection system contractors, electricians and electrical inspection agencies, tow truck companies, precious metals dealers, monitoring of weights & measures, and investigating complaints of unfair or deceptive practices.

A.  You can submit a complaint by email, mail, or in person at our office.  Be sure to include copies of receipts, contracts, or other supporting documents.

A.  No.  We enforce consumer laws and mediate complaints, but we cannot act as your attorney or provide legal representation.

A.  Any person or business that performs home improvement work on residential property in Rockland County must have a valid Home Improvement Contractor License issued by Rockland County Office of Consumer Protection.

A.  You can search on our online database or call our office to confirm whether a contractor holds a valid license.

A.  If a contractor is unlicensed, they may be subject to enforcement action, which can result in job delays while they obtain the required license or building permit. In addition, unlicensed contractors may not carry liability, disability, or workers’ compensation insurance, leaving the homeowner financially responsible in the event of property damage, worker injuries, or other issues. Hiring an unlicensed contractor also carries the risk of poor workmanship or code violations, as well as the risk of scams or fraud, such as taking deposits without completing the work. By contrast, licensed contractors in Rockland County have verified experience within their license categories, maintain the required insurance policies, and are able to apply for building permits, ensuring that work performed is reviewed and approved by the Building Department.

A.  Contractors must complete an application, provide proof of insurance, prove appropriate work experience for each classification, pay a licensing fee, and meet other requirements set by Rockland County.

 A.  It refers to ensuring fairness in commercial transactions involving weight, measure, or pricing.  This includes but is not limited to inspecting gas pumps, grocery scales, fuel oil trucks, and packed goods.

A.  Our inspectors test and seal commercial weighing and measuring devices to ensure accuracy annually, and after a recalibration of the device.

A.  If you believe you were overcharged due to an incorrect scale, pump, or measure, contact our office to file a complaint including details of the business and transaction and the receipt.

A.  We investigate unlicensed home improvement work, unlicensed mechanical work, unlicensed electrical work, false advertising, misrepresentation, overcharging by weight/measure, and other deceptive or unfair business practices.

A.  Depending on the violation, we may issue warnings, fines, hold license renewals, or recommend court proceedings.

A.  Yes.  Businesses have the legal right to respond to or request a hearing to appeal enforcement decisions in accordance with Rockland County law.