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 VERIFING A CONTRACTORS LICENSING We know... the contractor you're thinking about hiring, or their ad, says "Licensed and Insured". Licensed for what? Licensed where? Don't take a contractors word for it. You can check here in just about a minute. Here are a couple of tips to help you in verifying a contractors license: - The majority owner of the business MUST be licensed. Lots of contractors try to 'borrow' the license of a friend. This is called License-Lending and is illegal in South Carolina. (If the contractor has more than one office location, there must also be a licensed contractor in each office.) The license can't be in the name of an employee or any other person than the owner of the business.
- When you click on the CONTRACTOR LOOKUP link above, you will see a list of business types that require licensing in SC... from Accountants to Veterinary. Choose the category that best meets your need. If you are looking for a Home Improvement Contractor -- there are a couple categories to check.
1. First Check RESIDENTIAL BUILDERS - Covers Electrical, HVAC, Home Builder/General Contractor, Home Inspection, Plumber and Specialty Contractor (Carpentry, Drywall, Flooring, Insulation Masonry, Siding, Painting) 2. If you don't find the category you're looking for, go back to the link above and check CONTRACTOR - COMMERCIAL. If a contractor is licensed to do both residential and commercial, they will likely be listed here.
- Verify the License Status. It should say ACTIVE, not LAPSED and you should see the expiration date for the license.
- Verify that your contractor holds the correct license type. If your contractor is doing a major kitchen remodel and has a carpentry license, that doesn't mean he's licensed to do plumbing and electrical.
If you're having any problems verifying a contractor online, or if you have questions, you can contact SC LLR (Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation) for help. Call Michelle Sims in the Licensing Verification Department (803) 896-4801. If a contractor has done work or is attempting to do work for you, and you find they do not hold a SC License, you can contac the SC LLR Dept of Compliance and Investigation or contact us at HireLicensedContractors.org. To find a list of licensed contractors in your area, choose your specialty, then enter your city name and enter. Be sure to check the status column to be sure it says Active, and not Lapsed.  RED FLAGS YOUR CONTRACTOR MIGHT NOT BE LICENSED - Companies are driving unmarked trucks or vans, and display out-of-state license plates.
- When a contractor suggests you (the homeowner) obtain the permit. This tells you that the company is not licensed.
- If you are asked for a large upfront down payment and payments in cash.
- If the contractor wants to work after hours and on weekends (no code enforcers on duty)
- When asked to agree to a long term start date. Unlicensed companies have been known to do this to get a large amount of money from several clients. The problem is you don't become suspicious until the agreed upon start date-- and the company is GONE!
The information on this site is paid for and provided as a public service by your friends at HireLicencedContractors.org |
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