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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. Michigan 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 LARA 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 LARA 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 LARA, 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. Michigan license lookup

Sources

  1. LARA Bureau of Construction Codes - Residential Builders and Maintenance & Alteration Contractors (michigan.gov)
  2. LARA BCC - Electrical Administrative Board (michigan.gov)
  3. LARA BCC - Plumbing / Mechanical Boards (michigan.gov)