What occurs during the HIC hearing process?
All HIC/CSL complaints filed with the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation are reviewed for jurisdiction and possible violations of M.G.L, c. 142A. If OCABR determines that it has no jurisdiction over the complaint, the complaint is dismissed and written notification is sent to the homeowner. Reasons for a dismissal may include a complaint filed against an unlicensed contractor or a complaint regarding a property that is not owner-occupied. If potential violations are identified, the complainant/homeowner and respondent/contractor are notified that the complaint has been received. The parties are also notified that all correspondence received relative to the pending complaint must be forwarded to the Program Coordinator, to be assigned to the case for response. Ex parte communication (communication between the Hearings Officer and one party to a complaint) is strictly prohibited. Therefore, all inquiries relative to a pending case, including requests to continue or dismis
