Contractor Licensing Requirements
Both Maryland and Virginia have strict regulations overseeing contractors. It is illegal to enter a contract with a non-licensed contractor. There is no reciprocity between Maryland and Virginia with respect to contractor licenses. A contractor working in both states needs both state licenses. Both states will shut down jobs being performed by non-licensed contractors.
In Maryland, any person(s) or entity performing work at a residential property, must be a licensed, Maryland Home Improvement Contractor. This includes the General Contractor and every subcontractor working on the project. You may verify a contractor's license status by calling the Maryland Home Improvement Commission at: 1-410-230-6309
In Virginia, every contractor on a project must also be licensed. When a contractor work on a job that exceeds $25,000, the Contractor must be a Class "A" Contractor, regardless of whether the contractor is a General Contractor or a subcontractor. If the contract work is less than $ 25,000, a Class "B" License is required. You may verify a contractor's license status by calling the Department Of Professional And Occupational Regulation, Commonwealth Of Virgina at: 1-804-368-8500
Certificates Of Insurance
All contractors should have both Liability Insurance and Workman's Compensation Insurance. It is essential to get a Certificate Of Insurance from every contractor before work is commenced. Liability Insurance will protect you and your property from damage caused by the contractor. Federal Law requires that all employers maintain Workman's Compensation Insurance. Workers Comp. protects both employers and customers from damage claims brought by injured workers.
Essential Questions To Ask Bidders
- Does your company perform all aspects of the work with in-house, employees?
- If you use subcontractors, exactly what phases of the job are subcontracted?
- Will subcontractors be supervising themselves?
- Can you provide the following documentation for your company & all subcontractors BEFORE I SIGN CONTRACT?
- State Contractor's License
- Certificate Of Workman's Compensation Insurance
- Certificate Of Liability Insurance
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