Brown Measure That Dries Up Concern About Flood-Damaged Appliances Clears Consumer Protection Panel

WASHINGTON, D.C. – February 21, 2014 – (RealEstateRama) — The Consumer Affairs Committee today advanced a bill sponsored by Assemblyman A. Brown to protect families from fraud when buying or renting major appliances.

“Unscrupulous people who are trying to take advantage of those recovering from Superstorm Sandy need to be stoped. This bill will work to protect our consumers,” Brown said. “After Superstorm Sandy, we have become aware of the long-term effects of flood damage to homes, cars, and appliances like washers, dryers, and refrigerators. Problems resulting from water damage may not become apparent until weeks or months later. People just want to get on with their lives.”

The bill requires disclosure prior to the sale or rental of a household appliance with value greater than $250. Violators of the bill’s provisions will be subject to a fine of $2,500, and any person injured by reason of a violation of the bill can bring civil action and sue for treble damages.

“As a father of three children, I know nothing is more aggravating then having your washing machine break down,” Brown said. “The purchase of a refrigerator, freezer or washer and dryer, even second-hand, is a major investment for many of us. This legislation will take some of the risk out of the transaction, preventing families from buying an appliance that will inevitably become dysfunctional due to water exposure,” Brown said.