Warning about out-of-state contractors

BOSTON (WWLP) - The state is advising people whose homes were damaged in Wednesday’s tornado to only hire Massachusetts-licensed contractors.

According to a news release from the Office of Consumer and Business Regulation, out-of-state crews will often canvass damaged areas and offer repairs. Too often, they say, the work that these contractors do does not follow local building codes.

“Unfortunately, weather disasters such as this week’s tornadoes are often followed by unscrupulous individuals looking to take advantage of consumers who are stressed, anxious, and vulnerable,” said Barbara Anthony, the Undersecretary of the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation. “These crews offer seemingly good deals, done fast, but in the long run may cause significant problems for homeowners.

To find out the status of a home improvement contractor you are about to hire, visit the website for the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation. There is also a separate page to check the license status of a plumber, electrician, or sheet metal worker.

To file a complaint or to find out about a contractor's complaint history, you can visit the website of the Attorney General's Office.

In Springfield, you can call the Mayor's Office of Consumer Information at (413) 787-6437, or visit www.springfieldcityhall.com .

If you are approached by a person or a work crew without a license, you are asked to call the Consumer Hotline at (888) 283-3757.