“We developed this sting to arm DC residents so they can steer clear of unscrupulous businesses and avoid getting stuck with incomplete, inadequate or shoddy work,” said DCRA’s Interim Director Lisa Morgan. “We also want to warn contractors that they will pay a heavy price for doing business in the District of Columbia without a current business license,” she said.

DCRA’s Office of Consumer Protection wants District residents to know they can take specific steps to protect themselves from fraud and abuse by bad players in the marketplace.

The first step to ensure that you are dealing with a reputable business is to check to see if they’re licensed. While a business license doesn’t necessarily guarantee quality work or products, you’re much better protected from scams and rip offs if you work with licensed businesses.

“Unlicensed, amateur professionals endanger consumers, rob the city of revenue and cheat legitimate, licensed businesses,” said Morgan. “That’s why DCRA is working with the Office of the Attorney General to beef up enforcement and go after businesses that don’t treat our customers fairly.”

To get a license in the District of Columbia, a home improvement contractor must, among other things:

• Submit a police criminal history report;
• Post a surety bond;
• Carry public liability and property damage insurance; and
• Agree to specific language in their contracts that protect customers, such as a Buyer’s Right to Cancel