Unlicensed contractors.

Practice point: An unlicensed contractor may neither enforce a home improvement contract against an owner nor seek recovery in quantum meruit.

Student note: Pursuant to CPLR 3015(e), an action to recover damages for breach of a home improvement contract or to recover in quantum meruit for home improvement services will be dismissed if the complaint does not allege compliance with the licensing requirement.

Case: Enko Constr. Corp. v. Aronshtein, NY Slip Op 07805 (2d Dept. 2011).

Here is the decision.

Tomorrow’s issue: Caveat emptor.