Division of Consumer Affairs’ Undercover Enforcement Operations Result in Notices of Violations Against 18 Unregistered Home Improvement Contractor Businesses and 11 Unlicensed Moving Companies

TRENTON – Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin today announced that undercover enforcement operations carried out by the Division of Consumer Affairs (“Division”) resulted in Notices of Violation (“NOVs”) and civil penalties against 18 home improvement contractor businesses (“HICBs”) and 11 moving companies allegedly doing business in New Jersey without the required registrations or licenses.

Operation Safe House, a three-day enforcement sting carried out in Manchester Township, resulted in NOVs and $2,500 civil penalties against 18 home improvement contractor businesses (“HICBs”) soliciting work without being registered with the Division or with registrations that have expired. Similarly, Operation Safe Move, a two-day enforcement sting carried out in in Hamilton Township (Mercer County), resulted in NOVs and $5,000 civil penalties against 11 moving companies doing business without being licensed by the Division.

Regulated businesses in New Jersey, which include HICBs and public movers, are required to be registered or licensed by the Division and are subject to regulations aimed at protecting consumers from unlawful business practices and maintaining fair competition within their industries. These regulations require, among other things, that businesses carry general liability insurance.

“Businesses should never take advantage of hardworking New Jerseyans. Unfortunately, businesses operating without a proper license or registration pose a risk to consumers through potential poor service quality, property damage, and a lack of legal recourse should something go wrong,” said Attorney General Platkin. “By proactively identifying and taking enforcement action against these businesses, we’re reducing the risks to consumers and sending the message that this unlawful conduct will not be tolerated.”

“Companies doing business in New Jersey must follow the law and adhere to all regulations that protect consumers from deceptive or unfair practices,” said Elizabeth M. Harris, Acting Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs. “As these undercover enforcement actions demonstrate, businesses caught trying to circumvent these laws will be held accountable.”

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