Hiring a contractor? Here are some tips
Little Known Facts
Washington state law (RCW 18.27.100) requires that all advertisements for construction related services include the contractor's current Dept. of Labor and Industries registration number (Contractor Lic #) in their advertising.
Failure to obtain certificate of registration (i.e. Lic #) from L&I or show the registration number in all advertising will result in a fine up to $5000 against the unregistered contractor. For a contractor to obtain a certificate of registration they must first show proof of a bond no less than $12,000 for General Contractor or $6,000 for Specialty Contractor. As well as the proper amount of insurance.
Hiring a contractor?
If you are planning to hire someone to work on your home or
property do your homework. Here are a few good references.
Home Owners Guide To Hiring A Contractor
Basics for Homeowners:
Homeowner's Guide to Hiring a Contractor
This step-by-step 'Homeowner's Guide to Hiring a Contractor' will help you find a contractor who is qualified to handle your project, and avoid many of the most common problems.
To help you out. Here is a Quick Checklist for Hiring a Contractor
Look up a contractor, electrician,or plumber by name or licensce #
Make sure a contractor is registered, with a bond and insurance, and an electrician, plumber or elevator mechanic is certified (licensed) in Washington.
To check on a contractor simply click here and we'll take you to the Washington State L&I website
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