Providing for bonding requirements for contractors performing work on adjoining properties; and imposing penalties.
Impact
The enactment of HB 761 is expected to significantly alter how contractors operate within Pennsylvania, particularly concerning residential properties. By requiring bonding, the bill aims to create a safer environment for property owners and instill accountability among contractors. The legislation will likely lead to an increase in construction costs, as obtaining such bonds entails financial implications for contractors, which may be passed on to consumers in the form of higher service fees.
Summary
House Bill 761, known formally as the Contractor Bonding for Adjoining Properties Act, establishes new bonding requirements for contractors undertaking home improvement projects on properties that adjoin others. The bill mandates that contractors must secure a surety bond of $500,000 for each adjacent property involved in their projects. This is intended to safeguard property owners from potential damages that may arise during home improvement work, ensuring that financial recourse is available should issues occur.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 761 appears to be generally supportive within certain circles, particularly among homeowners seeking greater protections against contractor negligence. However, there are concerns expressed by contractor groups regarding the financial burden these requirements may impose on smaller or independent contractors. These stakeholders worry that the increased costs and administrative requirements could deter potential clients or even push some out of the market entirely.
Contention
Noteworthy points of contention within the discussions surrounding HB 761 include debates about the appropriateness of bonding amounts and the potential impact on the home improvement market. Some legislators question whether the $500,000 bond requirement is excessively high, particularly for smaller-scale contractors or projects. Additionally, there are discussions about whether such regulations could disproportionately affect lower-income homeowners, who may feel the pressure of increased service costs as contractors adjust to meet new compliance measures.
Providing for verification of construction contractors and for procedures for verification; establishing the Construction Contractor Verification Account; imposing penalties; and making an appropriation.
Providing for verification of construction contractors and for procedures for verification; establishing the Construction Contractor Verification Account; imposing penalties; and making an appropriation.
An Act Concerning Requirements For Home Construction Contractors And Home Improvement Contractors And Salespersons, Exempting Certain Persons From Locksmith Registration Requirements And Expanding The Applicability Of The Small Claims Procedure.
Providing for plumber and plumbing contractors licensure; establishing the State Board of Plumbing Contractors and providing for its powers and duties; conferring powers and imposing duties on the Department of State; establishing fees, fines and civil penalties; establishing the Plumbing Contractors Licensure Account; and making an appropriation.
In public safety, providing for testing of fire life safety dampers and smoke control systems; imposing duties on the State Fire Commissioner; and imposing penalties.
An Act Concerning The Assignment Of Post-loss Homeowners And Commercial Property Insurance Benefits And Revising Disclosure Requirements For Home Improvement Contractors And Salespersons.
Providing for plumber and plumbing contractors licensure; establishing the State Board of Plumbing Contractors and providing for its powers and duties; conferring powers and imposing duties on the Department of State; establishing fees, fines and civil penalties; establishing the Plumbing Contractors Licensure Account; and making an appropriation.