CONSUMER PROTECTION   Sometimes disagreements occur between consumers and contractors. When this happens, the Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board may be able to help with its Dispute Resolution Process.Click here to view an overview of the process. Homeowners can file claims with the Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board if they think the contractor has done negligent work, breached a contract, allowed liens to be filed, or otherwise caused damage. Generally speaking, the claim must be filed within a year of completion or two years if the contractor was notified in writing of the problem durring the first year. If a consumer has a contract with a contractor containing an arbitration clause, and a claim has been submitted for arbitration, then it shall not be subject to the claims provisions of the Contractors' Registration Law, or if the matter has been submitted to court. If a favorable judgment is received from court on arbitation action against the contractors registration can be processed for an administrative meeting if it is filed within 30 days of the judgement or decision. If a claim is filed, the Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board can send an investigator to the site to look at the claim items and attempt to resolve the dispute. If the dispute continues, the Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board offers a hearing and appeal process. If the contractor refuses to cooperate or refuses to pay any amounts ordered, the Board shall take appropriate action as allowed by law. The Contractors' Board can help consumers only if the contractor is registered.