§ 61-7-2. Civil penalties for unlicensed contractor's false representation.

(a)

There is hereby established a civil penalty of $2,500.00 that may be assessed when a person or business falsely represents to a customer or prospective customer for a home improvement, as defined below, that such person or business has a valid contractor's license issued pursuant to the provisions of Virginia Code § 54.1-1106. To the extent allowed by law, the remedies provided for in this Section are cumulative and not exclusive and shall be in addition to any other remedies.

(b)

Any person who is issued a summons for a scheduled violation may make an appearance in person or in writing by mail as directed in the summons prior to the date fixed for trial in court. Any person so appearing may enter a waiver of trial, admit liability, and pay the civil penalty established for the offense charged.

(c)

If a person charged with a scheduled violation does not elect to enter a waiver of trial and admit liability, the violation shall be tried in the General District Court in the same manner and with the same right of appeal as provided for by law.

(d)

For the purpose of this Section the business of home improvement shall mean the contracting for and/or providing labor and material or labor only for repairs, improvements, and additions to residential buildings or structures accessory thereto where any payment of money or other thing of value is required. (31-14-61.)