Home Improvement Contractor Registration

Registration System Outage

Our office is continuing to work on the home improvement contractor database, which was affected during the ransomware attack in August. We apologize for the inconvenience, and we thank you for your patience and cooperation during this challenging time. 

At this time, we are able to search contractor information to determine if a registration is active. To do this, you may call our HelpLine at 717-772-2425 during business hours or send us an email through the “Contact Us’ on the right-hand side.

Unfortunately, the part of the home improvement contractor database which allows us to process registrations is still not operational. This means that contractors cannot access the registration system online to register, renew or update information. In addition, we are unable to process  paper applications. For applicants who submit a complete paper application and payment, they will receive an acknowledgement letter in the mail. Once the system is operational again, the office will mail registration certificates, including the registration number, to all contractors who submitted complete applications and payments. For any applications that are incomplete, the applicant will receive follow up communication.

Grace Period for Registration
For contractors who started a new business after August 8, 2025, and for existing contractors whose registrations expired after August 8, 2025, the Office of Attorney General will allow a grace period for these contractors to register or reregister using the online system. This grace period will extend to 30 days after the registration system is restored.  Contractors whose registrations have expired will be notified by email once the system is ready to accept online renewals again. New contractors should periodically check the office’s website to learn when the system has been restored, or mail a paper application.

For existing contractors whose registrations expired after August 8, 2025, the Office of Attorney General will not seek to hold such existing contractors liable for failing to renew during the grace period. For new contractors who started a new business after August 8, 2025, the Office of Attorney General will not hold such new contractors liable for failing to register or to display their registration number on their contract or advertisements during the grace period.

Other HICPA Requirements Remain in Effect

Please Note: The grace period applies only to the HICPA registration (and, for new contractors, advertising) requirements. It does not excuse any person from complying with the other requirements in HICPA, including the requirement to obtain and maintain insurance.  This grace period also does not apply to contractors who are prohibited by a Court Order (including an Assurance of Voluntary Compliance) from registering or holding themselves out as contractors.

In 2008, the Pennsylvania Legislature passed the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act. The law requires that all contractors who perform at least $5,000 worth of home improvements per year register with the Attorney General’s Office.

We have worked to ensure that the registration process is as quick and easy as possible. Registration may be completed online (currently offline) or by mailing an application to our office. We encourage you to complete your registration online, as you will receive your registration number and a printable temporary registration certificate instantaneously.