[HIGHLIGHTS ADDED. See below for the additional cautions we recommend.]

(AUSTIN) - The Texas Residential Construction Commission continues to find builders and remodelers who appear to be working illegally throughout the Hurricane Ike strike zone. To date the commission has issued notices of violation to 111 storm chasers working in the region. [Note that the TRCC can issue adminstrative fines for not registering but currently lacks the regulatory authority to force a repair of construction defects or stop builders from practicing their trade. That's why HOT is working on behalf of Texas homeowners to abolish or totally reform the TRCC.]

It is crucial for homeowners to realize that qualified work completed by a registered Texas builder is under warranty. The commission strongly advises consumers to thoroughly review a builder or remodeler’s record with the commission and check references before they sign any work contract or agreement. [Because many warranty agreements in Texas offer illusionary promises and don't actually cover repairs, be sure to read the agreement carefully.]


“We encourage people to contact the commission if they have any questions or doubts as to whether a builder or remodeler is registered,” said Commission Executive Director Duane Waddill. “It is important that consumers help ensure their warranty rights are protected. Storm chasers leave consumers behind with the next storm.” [Registration is the least restrictive form of regulation and gives the State little power to enforce building standards. So, we're fighting  for Licensing for more powerful regulatory oversight.]

In order to work as a builder or remodeler in Texas, a physical address in the state is required. Builders and remodelers from other states are not qualified to register but can partner with properly registered Texas builders and remodelers.

The commission urges consumers to visit IkeResponse.org to find registered builders. The commission also has an online searchable database located on its Web site to verify builder/remodeler registration. For more information about a builder or for any commission-related questions, visit TexasRCC.org or call 877-651-TRCC (8722).

The Progress, serving Anahuac and Chambers County, Texas
12/18/2008

Source: http://www.theanahuacprogress.com/articles/2008/11/25/news/news7.txt

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