BEWARE OF UNLICENSED IRRIGATION CONTRACTORS

It has come to our attention that there are uninvited “scammers” knocking on people’s doors offering irrigation services such as repairs, Spring start-ups, etc.

First, no legitimate irrigation company will come to your house uninvited looking for work.  And, if they do, you probably should be very cautious before you agree to any services without asking for a quote.

Second, and most importantly, the State of Illinois Department of Public Health requires an annual certification in accordance with Section 892.20(b) of the Illinois Lawn Irrigation Contractor and Lawn Sprinkler System Registration Code.  It states Irrigation contractors shall provide proof that at least one irrigation employee has completed and passed an approved class in the design and installation of lawn sprinkler systems. This is an annual requirement.

So, no matter who you hire to perform irrigation work on your system, you should ask to see their license before agreeing to any work.  This includes start-ups and winterization – not just complicated repairs or installations. You should also ensure they are insured and bonded just in case an accident occurs on your property while performing work.

If you go to www.hancockirrigation.com website, you will see on the first page a copy of what a license, ID, and updated certificate of education for 2017 looks like. What you should ask is to see their ID.  If they say they don’t have one, inform them it is a State of Illinois requirement.. If they say they do not have it with them then ask for their employer’s name, address and phone number.