SYRACUSE (AP) - Attorney General Andrew Cuomo is unveiling a new Web site to help New Yorkers avoid home-improvement scams and dishonest contractors.

Cuomo says launching the site is timely because of the instability of the housing market, which is likely forcing homeowners to hold on to their properties for longer and make more improvements.

The Web site, www.nyknowyourcontractor.com, features a database listing contractors who have had a complaint or lawsuit filed against them. The site also includes tips on what consumers should do before hiring a contractor, other resources and links, and information on how to file a complaint against a contractor.

Cuomo says his office has handled more than 1,550 complaints against home-improvement contractors since Jan. 1, 2007.