Contractor Licensing Info
Learn How to Get Licensed, and Pass Contractor Exams
General Contractor Licensing rules vary widely by state. For home and
business owners, it is important to know that the contractor is following all
local and state regulations, because disputes between regulators, contractors,
and customers almost always involve more lawyers and money than the project is
worth. Likewise, the savvy general contractor has to navigate multiple
regulations while overseeing subcontractors who may be cutting corners. This is
why general contractor licensing standards are not only important, but
essential, especially for the business that takes on such a heavy load of
responsibility.
A licensed general contractor must have professional-grade knowledge of boilers,
electrical work, concrete, fire prevention, drainage, landscaping, swimming
pools, asbestos removal, floor coverings, masonry, and even elevator
installation. Tougher licensing standards also require the general contractor to
be in line with rules regarding payment collection, business practices, signage,
and use of licensed subcontractors and day labor. Naturally, general contractor
licensing in many states involves political and legal considerations such as
verification of residency for all people on site, OSHA regulations, and
insurance. Failing in any one of these factors can lead to loss of your general
contractor license or heavy fines.
State contractor licensing codes can be completely different in some areas, and
some of the most stringent are in California, Florida, Georgia, and Illinois.
For instance, the Contractors State License Board in California has requirements
that include licensing home improvement salespeople, certifications of work
experience, bond requirements, hazardous material certifications, and more. Most
other states have tough standards for compliance, but California is not shy on
enforcing general contractor licensing regulations, even in disaster situations
where qualified subcontractors are needed from out of state for specialized
work.
Notes and Special Information
Special note: Always get multiple contractor quotes, or you will not get the best deal.