Storm Recovery and Homeowner Consumer Advisory for Ward 2 and Danbury Residents

Following severe summer thunderstorms that caused downed trees, power disruptions, and structural property damage across northern and eastern Danbury, Ward 2 City Councilman John Laughinghouse has issued an urgent constituent advisory to protect homeowners from unscrupulous repair contractors.

Beware of Unsolicited Door-to-Door Solicitors

In the wake of major weather events, out-of-state contractors and unlicensed tree-trimming outfits frequently canvass hard-hit neighborhoods using high-pressure sales pitches:

1. Verify State of Connecticut Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) Licenses: Before signing any agreement or handing over a deposit, verify the contractor’s active registration with the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) at ct.gov/dcp.
2. Insist on Proof of Insurance: Always demand certificates of insurance for both General Liability and Workers’ Compensation coverage. If an uninsured worker is injured on your property, the homeowner can be held financially liable.
3. Never Pay Upfront in Full: Legitimate contractors rarely ask for total payment upfront. Never pay in cash, and never sign blank or incomplete work authorization contracts.
4. Consult Your Homeowner’s Insurance Adjuster First: Document all roof, siding, and water damage with timestamped photographs before authorizing non-emergency repairs.

City Services and Debris Removal

Danbury Public Works crews continue cleaning municipal roads, storm drains, and public easements. If your street has blocked storm drains or downed municipal trees blocking the right-of-way, please report them through the City’s 311 portal or call Public Works directly.

For constituent inquiries or assistance in Ward 2, contact Councilman Laughinghouse directly at johnlaughinghouse11@gmail.com or call (203) 994-6939.