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Hastings files bill to protect homeowners from post-storm contractor scams
State Senator Michael E. Hastings filed legislation aimed at protecting Illinois homeowners from deceptive and high-pressure contractor practices that often follow severe weather and natural disasters.
“After a major storm, families are overwhelmed and trying to protect their homes, not negotiate contracts on their front lawn,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort).
“This legislation would give homeowners breathing room and make sure bad actors cannot take advantage of people when they are at their most vulnerable.”
The bill would modify the Home Repair and Remodeling Act to curb common post-storm tactics, including promises to waive insurance deductibles and aggressive door-to-door solicitation.
Hastings said homeowners are too often pressured into quick decisions at a time when they should be focused on safety, insurance claims, and getting their lives back on track.
Under the proposal, contractors would be prohibited from advertising or promising to pay or waive any portion of a homeowner’s insurance deductible. Contractors would also be restricted from soliciting work while emergency responders are on site, during an ongoing loss-producing event, late at night, or for 72 hours after the governor issues a disaster proclamation – unless the homeowner initiates contact.
The legislation would also target out-of-area contractors by banning the practice of allowing another contractor to use a business name or license for compensation. Roofing contractors would be required to clearly display their Illinois license name and number on contracts, bids and advertisements.
The measure would strengthen homeowners’ rights to cancel certain repair contracts tied to insurance claims if coverage is denied and limits the role contractors may play in filing or negotiating insurance claims.
“This bill is about fairness and common sense,” said Hastings. “Honest contractors should not be undercut by scams, and homeowners deserve clear rules and real protections when rebuilding after a disaster.”
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Hanania was named "Best Ethnic American Columnist" by the New America Media in November 2007, and is the 2009 recipient of the SPJ National Sigma Delta Chi Award for column writing.
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