State regulators approve agreement resolving violations with a Kent-based mover
 
Feb. 9, 2011
Docket Number: TV-100561

State regulators approve agreement resolving violations with a Kent-based mover

OLYMPIA, Wash. – State regulators today approved an agreement resolving a complaint against a Kent-based residential moving company.

The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) approved a settlement agreement in which Neighbors Moving and Storage of Seattle, LLC agreed to a $14,200 penalty for violation of certain state rules.

Under the settlement, Neighbors has agreed to:
· Get a customer’s signature on every written estimate prior to a move.
· Use proper bill of lading forms.
· Charge the required minimum number of hours for moves made after regular hours.
· Comply with advertising requirements.

UTC staff reviewed the company’s business records for 67 residential moves performed by Neighbors last February. The commission issued a complaint against the company Sept. 23 recommending penalties of up to $1,000 for each of 139 violations allegedly committed by the moving company. UTC staff later agreed to dismiss 63 of the alleged violations. Staff and company representatives settled on the penalty amount, with $4,000 of that total suspended for one year, based upon the company’s demonstrated corrections to its procedures and policies.

The commission did not contact nor receive any complaints from customers that claimed to be harmed or misled by the alleged violations against Neighbors Moving Co.

UTC staff will conduct a follow-up investigation early next year to resolve the suspended penalty and to ensure the company remains in compliance with state laws and rules.

The UTC is the state agency in charge of enforcing consumer protection and safety regulations for more than 200 residential moving companies operating within the state. Movers are required to get a permit from the UTC, charge appropriate rates, carry proper insurance and keep their vehicles safely maintained. The commission does not regulate interstate moving companies.