Rockland Impounds Unlicensed Landscaper's Equipment

PEARL RIVER, NY — Rockland officials have impounded the tools and equipment belonging to an alleged unlicensed landscaper. The man, who uses the name Rob Louch, was seen mowing a lawn in Pearl River, so county Consumer Protection Inspectors intercepted him.

With help from the Rockland Sheriff's Office, they impounded his tools and equipment, and issued an Appearance Ticket for a future date in Orangetown court.

He faces a charge of Unlicensed Home Improvement, a Class A Misdemeanor. The penalty upon conviction is a fine of not exceeding $1,000.00, or up to one year in prison, or both fine and imprisonment.

The Rockland County Office of Consumer Protection has received numerous complaints from licensed professionals in the landscaping trade concerning unlicensed landscapers within the county, said Director Jim Elcik said in the announcement.

This action was taken under the updated 2009 Rockland County Consumer Home Improvement Protection Act. The updated Act permits authorities to impound equipment and vehicles of unlicensed contractors, to create the incentive for contractors to apply for a proper license.

“This is a prime example of the importance of having this specific tool in our toolbox,” said County Executive Ed Day. “Let this serve as a warning to any other unlicensed landscapers, we expect you to follow the same rules as everyone else. We’re not looking to impound your equipment but if you continue to flagrantly violate the law, make no mistake about it, we will do so.”

It costs $325 to apply for a Home Improvement License with Rockland County. There are approximately 1,834 licensed Home Improvement contractors operating in Rockland.

“The degree of enforcement against an unlicensed contractor depends on the severity of their violations and the complaints against them,” said Elcik. “We want to ensure that every contractor has the proper liability and worker's compensation insurance. This protects homeowners and property owners in case a contractor or their employee is injured while working on a project.”

The mission of the Office of Consumer Protection is to protect Rockland County consumers by providing a safe and fair marketplace through oversight, enforcement and licensing of professionals.

If you have a concern or want to make a complaint, call the Office of Consumer Protection at (845)364-3901 or send us an email: cplcal@co.rockland.ny.us