Registered Home Improvement Contractor (HIC)

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In Massachusetts, the Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) Program is administered by the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR). The program is designed to protect homeowners engaging in home improvement projects by requiring contractors to register and comply with state regulations.

Any contractor or business performing home improvement work on residential property (1-4 unit owner-occupied homes) must be registered as an HIC.

Requirements to Become an HIC

  • Registration: Contractors must register with the Massachusetts OCABR to legally conduct home improvement work. This includes submitting an application, paying the registration fee, and providing basic business information.
  • Registration Fee: Fees vary depending on the length of registration (typically renewable every 2 years).
  • Contract Compliance: HICs must provide written contracts for work exceeding $1,000, and the contracts must include specific details required by law (such as payment schedules, scope of work, dates, etc.).
  • Insurance: Contractors are encouraged to carry liability insurance, though it is not mandatory for registration. Homeowners should always confirm insurance coverage before hiring a contractor.

Key Rights and Protections for Homeowners

  1. Access to the Guaranty Fund:
    • The Home Improvement Contractor Guaranty Fund offers financial compensation to homeowners who suffer damages due to contractor failure or misconduct.
    • Homeowners can apply for compensation (up to $10,000) if the contractor is registered and work was done under a valid HIC agreement.
  2. Written Contract Requirements:
    • HICs must provide a written contract for all projects valued over $1,000. This contract must include:
      • Total cost and payment schedule
      • A detailed description of work to be performed
      • Dates for the start and completion of the work
      • Contractor’s registration number
  3. Consumer Complaint Resolution:
    • Registered HICs are subject to state oversight. If disputes arise, homeowners can file complaints with the OCABR for investigation.

Scope of Work Covered

Home improvement work includes a variety of tasks, such as:

  • Remodeling
  • Repair
  • Renovation
  • Alterations
  • Additions
  • Roof replacement
  • Siding
  • Window installation
  • Driveway paving
  • Decks and porches

Note:New home construction and commercial property work are NOT covered under the HIC registration system.

What HIC Registration Does NOT Mean

While being a registered HIC is a legal requirement for performing home improvement work, it is not a professional license. It does NOT:

  • Guarantee the quality of work
  • Imply special training or qualifications beyond registration
  • Ensure the contractor has insurance (homeowners should still request proof of liability insurance)

For work involving specialized trades (e.g., plumbing, electrical, HVAC), contractors must also hold the appropriate professional licenses in addition to HIC registration.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Contractors who perform home improvement work without being registered as an HIC can face:

  • Fines
  • Civil penalties
  • Suspension of their ability to work on residential projects

Additionally, unregistered contractors do not provide homeowners access to the Guaranty Fund, which may deter homeowners from hiring them.

Summary

Being a Massachusetts Registered Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) means:

  • The contractor is legally registered with the state to perform residential home improvement projects.
  • The contractor must comply with consumer protection laws, including providing proper contracts.
  • Homeowners have access to financial protections, such as the Guaranty Fund, when hiring a registered contractor.
  • It demonstrates compliance with state laws, but homeowners should still check references, insurance, and experience to ensure they hire a qualified professional.

When it comes to improving your home—the place where memories are made and families grow—you deserve a contractor who is reputable, ethical, and committed to excellence. As a Massachusetts Registered Home Improvement Contractor (HIC), I’ve taken the extra steps to ensure my work meets the highest standards of professionalism, safety, and consumer protection.

What Does It Mean to Be a Registered Home Improvement Contractor?

Being a Registered HIC isn’t just a title—it’s a commitment to quality and integrity. This registration, overseen by the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR), shows that I operate a legitimate, trustworthy business that follows state regulations and prioritizes homeowner protection.


Why This Is So Important for YOU

1. Peace of Mind: I’m Legitimate and Trustworthy

As a registered contractor, I’ve met the requirements set by the state to perform home improvement work on residential properties. This is a clear sign that I care about operating legally and ethically—no shortcuts, no fly-by-night operations. You can trust that I stand by my work and take my responsibilities seriously.

2. Written Contracts = No Surprises

For any project over $1,000, I provide a detailed, written contract outlining the scope of work, payment schedules, and project timelines. This ensures we’re on the same page every step of the way—no guesswork, no gray areas, no stress.

3. I Follow Building Codes and Best Practices

Your home is your most valuable asset, and I treat it with the respect it deserves. By being a registered HIC, I’m committed to following Massachusetts building codes and industry best practices, ensuring your home improvements are safe, durable, and compliant.

4. You’re Protected with the Guaranty Fund

As a homeowner, you gain access to the state’s Home Improvement Contractor Guaranty Fund—a financial safety net if something doesn’t go as planned. This program is ONLY available when you hire a registered contractor like me. It’s an extra layer of security that protects your investment.

Why Work with Me?

As a Registered Home Improvement Contractor, I combine experience, professionalism, and state compliance to deliver results you’ll love. My registration means I’m accountable, ethical, and dedicated to ensuring your project is done right the first time.

You’re not just hiring a contractor—you’re partnering with someone who cares about your home as much as you do.

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Let’s Transform Your Home Together!

Don’t settle for anything less than a trusted, registered professional who values quality craftsmanship and your peace of mind. I’m proud to be a Massachusetts Registered Home Improvement Contractor, and I’m ready to bring your vision to life.

Call Us!