Never Hire An Unlicensed Contractor
The top 4 reasons to never hire an unlicensed contractor may not seem all that important until it’s too late. In this short article we share the 4 main reasons to avoid hiring an unlicensed contractor and why licensed professionals are always the best option. Project Costs, Licensing, Insurance and disputes or recourse, are the key things to consider when hiring the right builder..
The Cost Of Hiring An Unlicensed Contractor
For many if not most people, choosing a contractor for your new home build or remodel comes down to project costs. Unfortunately, cost is not the best way and can ultimately end up costing far more in the long run. The reason for this is simple, cost does not equate to expertise or experience. Lower costs are why most unlicensed contractors get hired more than they should.
Hiring A Licensed Contractor VS Unlicensed Contractor
Another factor people consider that many overlook, is licensing. Hiring a Licensed Contractor vs an unlicensed contractor is your best bet. Licensed Contractors have proven that they are knowledgeable, capable and approved by their state to offer professional contracting services.
Contractors understand everything from building codes to permit requirements at the local and state levels where they hold their license. An unlicensed contractor on the other hand, may not know all building codes or permit requirements. Not having the right permits in place or knowing which codes are required, can cost you more than just money in the long run. The last thing you want to deal with is having to tear down or rebuild due to city or state building code violations. Whether you’re looking to build a new home, upgrade your existing home or just adding a garage or shop, choosing to hire a licensed building contractor is always going to be your best option.
Insured And/Or Bonded Vs Uninsured
Insured and/or Bonded Contractors provide their clients with piece of mind from start to finish. Insurance requirements for contractors vary from state to state. In Arizona, Licensed Contractors are not required by law to have liability insurance but they are required to be Bonded, and carry up to date Workman’s Compensation Insurance. Many contractor’s also carry an additional liability insurance policy to take care of any unforeseen liabilities that may arise during the course of a project.
Unlike Bonding and Liability Insurance, Workman’s compensation covers all company employees in the event of an accident. Companies that do not have workman’s comp on their employees become the responsibility of the property owner, not the company. That means if an employee of the company your hire is injured on your job, you as the home owner are liable. Protecting yourself and your investment from unnecessary medical bills or a potential law suit are also important reasons to always hire a licensed contractor.
Disputes and Recourse
In the event of a dispute between you and your contractor, the state contractor’s board offers some recourse. If a licensed contractors fails to provide quality work or services, obtain necessary permits or breeches his building contractor with you, the state contractors board can help. Unlicensed contractors on the other hand, can not be held liable by the state board. Ultimately, you would have to take an unlicensed contractor to court and hope for the best outcome. Hoping for the best outcome should never be a concern for anyone when hiring a licensed professional.
To find out if a contractor is licensed, never accept their word as proof. It is imperative that you look up all contractors on Arizona’s Contractor Search portal before you hire them. All you need is their ROC License Number to perform a contractor search.
An old or expired contractor license may be a sign that the company has had problems with the state licensing board and is no longer in good standing. Doing your due diligence before you hire is as simple as asking your contractor for proof of Bonding, Work Comp coverage and lastly, performing your own quick search on AZROC’s website.
We hope you found this article helpful and informative. Remember, when hiring a local contractor to build anything, always make sure they are licensed, bonded and are in good standing in the state where they operate. If you need a professional consultation with a Licensed Lake Havasu Contractor, Contact Devett Development today!
