Contractor credentials
Every state has their own rules and requirements if you want to become a licensed contractor. And according to a nationwide Angie’s List poll, the majority of respondents said it’s important to hire a licensed home-improvement contractor.
Here are Angie’s List 7 tips on getting the proper license.
- Know the law: Contractors should check with state and local (county, city and townships) in which they work to find out if a license or registration is required for the type of work they perform.
- Display requirements: Check to see if that licensing agency has any display requirements for that license. Is it required on all advertisements? All company vehicles? All contracts?
- Are you covered? Does that license require a minimum amount of liability and workers compensation insurance? Is bonding required? Regardless of licensing, make sure you have enough coverage for all jobs you bid and perform to protect you and the consumer.
- Test, what test? Does the license require an exam or minimum amount of experience? If an exam’s required, find out when and where you can take it.
- Don’t let licensing expire. Find out how long the license is good for. Is continued education a part of the license?
- Who’s included? Does the license agency require all employees of the company to have a license or just the supervisor?
- Know the costs: Pay all fees associated with the various licenses required to ensure you stay in good standing with the licensing boards.