City now requiring contractors to register 

Buildings Commissioner Patricia Lancaster launched a new contractor registration program today that aims to prevent shoddy construction. General contractors seeking permits to build one-, two- and three-family homes must now register with the Buildings Department by the end of October or face criminal charges, stop-work orders or the seizure of vehicles and construction tools. To register, contractors must meet certain qualifications and pass a limited background check, as well as provide warranties to homebuyers that guarantee structures will be free of certain defects for six years after construction. TRD