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What should you check before hiring?

What to ask before you hire

  1. Get the license number in writing. The name on the license should match the name on your contract and invoice.
  2. Check the class covers the job. A license for one trade doesn't cover another. Massachusetts license classes
  3. Ask for a certificate of insurance sent to you by the insurance agent, not handed over by the contractor. How to read a COI
  4. Ask who will be on site. If a crew works on your property, ask for proof of workers' comp. An exemption means the contractor told the board it has no employees.
  5. Put it in a written contract: license number, price, start date and payment schedule. Check the license again on the day you sign.

If the license is lapsed

  1. Don't sign or pay a deposit until the board shows the license active again.
  2. Ask the contractor why. For a bond or insurance lapse, ask for proof that the new bond or policy was filed with the board, then check again.
  3. If work has started, hold further payments, keep the contract, receipts and photos, and file a complaint with the state board.
  4. Check another contractor. Massachusetts license lookup

Sources

  1. Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation - Home Improvement Contractor (mass.gov)
  2. Board of Building Regulations and Standards - Construction Supervisor License (mass.gov)
  3. Board of State Examiners of Electricians (mass.gov)
  4. Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters (mass.gov)
  5. Sheet metal / HVAC licensing (DPL) (mass.gov)