When choosing a contractor to perform your construction project there are several important factors to consider.  Among others you will probably look at price, timeline to complete the project, the contractor's reputation, and recommendations from family and friends.  Most customers will primarily look at price and from there go off recommendations.  The problem with looking at just price and going off what a friend said is that you may choose a contractor who is not licensed or insured.  In order to protect yourself you need to make sure that you hire a licensed contractor. 

In Georgia there are three types of contractor's licenses; Residential-Basic, Residential-Light Commercial, and General Contractor.  Residential-Basic Contractors can perform work on 1 and 2 family homes and 1 family townhomes not more than three stories.  Residential-Light Commercial Contractors can perform the same work as Residential-Basic Contractors and multi-family residential and light commercial structures.  General Contractors can perform work on all residential and commercial buildings.

As of July 1, 2008 all contractors performing work in the state of Georgia are required to hold one of the above licenses.  The main reason the state decided to adopt the licensure regulations was to protect consumers.  By requiring that contractors become licensed the state can make sure that every contractor is held to a minimum standard.  The state requires that contractors hold a minimum level of knowledge by implementing an exam that tests an applicant's construction and business knowledge.  The state also requires that the contractor have liability and workers compensation insurance.  Contractors are also required to pass a background check and minimum financial standards. 

Even though the state has passed laws requiring contractors to be licensed there are still companies that are uninsured and do not hold a contractors license.  As the consumer it is your responsibility to verify that your contractor has a license and insurance.  If work valued at more than $2,500 is being performed there is a good chance that the contractor needs to be licensed.  There are some specialty trades that do not require licensure (http://sos.georgia.gov/plb/contractors/Specialty_contractors.htm). 

 To check a contractor's license you can visit the Georgia Secretary of State's website at https://secure.sos.state.ga.us/myverification/.  To check Sustainable Construction Service's license you can search for our qualifying agent by name using Jonathan Dauchert or by license number using RBQA004647.