Pennsylvania Home Builder Licensing: HICPA Requirements

Yes. Under the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA, 68 Pa.C.S. §§5101–5118), all contractors performing home improvements—including new home construction—must register with the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Bureau of Consumer Protection.

Registration Requirements

• Application + fee ($50 initial, $50 biennial renewal).
• Proof of general liability insurance ($50k minimum).
• Criminal background check (no disqualifying felonies).
• Disclosure of previous bankruptcies, judgments, license revocations.
• No trade exam required for registration (unlike electricians/plumbers).

Post-Registration Duties

• Written contract mandatory for jobs >$500 (specific clauses required).
• No >1/3 down payment before work starts (custom materials excepted).
• Provide consumer notice (right to cancel, AG contact).
• Warranty: implied workmanlike quality; express warranties honored.
• Display registration number on contracts, ads, vehicles.

Verification

Consumers: Check attorneygeneral.gov/hicpa "Contractor Search." Unregistered contractors cannot legally enforce contracts and face fines ($1,000+/violation).