1.   But a new study warns homeowners, particularly the elderly, should use caution in hiring home improvement contractors.

2.   Complaints about home improvement contractors rank second only to gripes about automobile dealers, according to a study released Wednesday by the senior citizens advocate group AARP.

3.   Many of the loans start with shady home improvement contractors.

4.   We checked the record of the home improvement contractor with state regulators and the Better Business Bureau.

5.   Another consumer protection proposal would target home improvement contractors.

6.   Legislation backed by Gov. Christie Whitman that would force home improvement contractors to register with the state passed the Senate on Thursday.

7.   The measure would require all home improvement contractors to register with the state or county in which they work.