Pennsylvania's Home Improvement Contractor Registration is still grappling with the effects of a cyber attack in August 2025 and cannot process registrations. The registry is intended to protect consumers by screening for registered, accountable contractors. Individuals and businesses who perform over $5,000 in annual home improvements are required to register with the program, which is enforced by the Attorney General’s Office under the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA). It requires liability insurance and a $50 fee. For contractors who started a new business after Aug. 8, 2025, and for existing contractors whose registrations expired after that date, the Office of Attorney General will allow a grace period to register or reregister up to 30 days after the registration system is restored. More information is available at the Office of Attorney General website. The outage is leading to reports of difficulties at the local level, as municipal officials tell Realtors and property owners that they are having trouble verifying contractors' status. Members of the Bucks County and Tri-County associations of Realtors are encouraged to contact the Suburban Realtors Alliance if they experience problems dealing with municipal officials during real estate transactions.
Source: Office of PA Attorney General