Alert: Protect Yourself from Unpermitted Work and Unregistered Contractors

By LMF | 04/28/2026

The Township has received reports of contractors going door-to-door offering home improvement and repair services. While many contractors are legitimate, some are performing work without required permits, proper registration, or written contracts.

Residents are encouraged to use caution before agreeing to any work on their property. The following information is intended to help protect you:

Door-to-Door Sales

Any individual going door-to-door to sell a service or product must possess a valid Transient Sales License issued by the Township. This license is a small yellow card displaying the seller’s name, business type, license number, and expiration date.

This requirement allows the Township and Police Department to track who is operating within the community.

If a salesperson cannot provide this license upon request, do not engage and contact local law enforcement by calling 911.

Permits

Many types of construction and repair work require permits. While contractors often obtain permits on behalf of the homeowner, the property owner is ultimately responsible for ensuring that required permits are in place.

If a contractor claims that a permit is not necessary, residents should verify this with the Township before work begins.

Examples of work that generally does not require a permit include:

  • Roof shingle replacement (no structural changes)
  • Interior/exterior painting
  • Flooring installation
  • Replacement of windows or doors with the same size and configuration
  • Applying driveway sealant (pavement overlay and/or enlargement requires permit)
  • Furnace replacement using the same fuel system
  • Replacement of certain plumbing or electrical fixtures
  • Cabinet replacement

When in doubt, always check with the Township office at 717-741-3861.

Contractor Registration and Contracts

Under Pennsylvania’s Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA), contractors performing most home improvement work must be registered with the Office of Attorney General and comply with specific requirements.

Before allowing any contractor or subcontractor to begin work:

  • Confirm they are properly registered
  • Ensure a written contract is provided
  • Review payment terms and deposit requirements carefully

You can verify contractor registration by visiting: PA Home Improvement Consumer Protection Information

Protect Yourself

Never feel pressured to make immediate decisions, especially when approached at your home. Reputable contractors will:

  • Provide documentation
  • Allow time for verification
  • Offer written agreements before starting work

Questions or Concerns

If you have any questions about permits, contractor requirements, or suspicious activity, please contact the Township office at 717-741-3861.