How to Check a Contractor's License Before You Hire

Hiring an unlicensed contractor can mean failed inspections, problems selling your home, and no protection if something goes wrong. Checking a license takes a couple of minutes. Here is how.

Which trades usually need a license

Rules depend on your state, county and city, but these trades are commonly licensed:

• General contractors and builders
• Roofers
• Electricians and plumbers
• Heating and air conditioning
• Pool contractors

Some cleaning, painting and handyman work does not need a state license, but many cities still require a local business license and insurance.

Where to check

• Florida: the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) has a free online license search. Many counties also license trades locally.
• Georgia: the Secretary of State lists licensed residential and general contractors, electricians and plumbers.
• Colorado: plumbers and electricians are licensed by the state; most building contractors are licensed by the city or county.
• Jordan and the UAE: ask for the trade license and check it with the local municipality or economic department.

What to look for

• The name on the license matches the business on the quote.
• The license is active, not expired or suspended.
• The license covers the work you need. A painting license does not cover electrical work.

Red flags

• They ask you to pull the permit yourself.
• They want most of the money up front, in cash.
• They cannot show proof of insurance.

On CSI Elite Services, pros can upload their license, insurance and ID. A "Verified pro" badge means our team checked them.