If you need structural work done on your existing home southernalbertaconstruction.com may be just who you are looking for. When you are looking to hire a contractor, make sure that they are bonded and licensed. Hiring an unlicensed contractor could pose significant risks that could end with legal ramifications.
Importance of Hiring a Licensed and Bonded Contractor
Every state is different, but each state has laws in place regarding a contractor’s license. Most states require a professional contractor to have a license before any work can be done on a person’s property. A general contractor’s licenses give you the ability to do a variety of tasks under once license. Some states have requirements that a person must obtain certain work experience or a certain degree before they can apply for their license. Usually, an exam has to be passed before the license will be issued.
Some states also require that the contractor have an active insurance policy and be bonded before they will finally issue the license. Being bonded is a little different than just having a license. A bonded contractor means that the contractor has bought a surety bond. This is a type of insurance policy that can protect the property owner because it gives a certain amount of liability protection if the contractor doesn’t complete that job. The bond will give the property owner compensation for work not done.
Hiring an unlicensed contractor can be very dangerous. Since it is required by law to hire a licensed contractor, someone working without a license is already breaking the law. If they are dishonest enough to work without a license, they are probably not complying with other laws for your construction. They other laws may include permits or inspections; if these are not done properly, there can be major costs for fines. If a job is not done up to code, it may hinder you from selling your home in the future.
Also, hiring an unlicensed contractor may mean that the quality of work they offer is not up to par because they didn’t pass the examination to get their licenses. Another thing to consider when working with unlicensed contractors is that you are not able to make warranty claims. If your insurance is paying for the repairs, they will only pay for a licensed contractor to perform the work; if an unlicensed contractor injures themselves on your property, you may be subject to a lawsuit. Unlicensed contractors will not have any liability insurance to protect you.
When looking for a licensed contractor, contact the state licensing board to find reputable contractors in your area. When you receive the list, you can call the contractors and get them to give you a quote on the work you need to be done.
