Risks When Working With Unlicensed Contractors

Make Sure Your Dream Doesn't Become a Nightmare...

The Best Advice to Avoid the Worst Mistakes
When You Build or Remodel Your Home

 

If you work with an unlicensed contractor, you risk exposing yourself to many expenses you may not be aware of. Pay attention to the warning signs of an unlicensed contractor, and be aware of the following risks:

• Does your building or remodeling budget include health care costs?
  If an unlicensed contractor or employee is hurt while working at your home, you are liable for any injuries. This means that you are responsible for the expenses related to emergency care, hospitalization, rehabilitation, and other services.
  
  BAM members carry their own liability insurance.
  
  
• Are you prepared to fix your contractor's mistakes?
  If the work of an unlicensed contractor at your home is deemed unsafe or does not meet code, correcting the problem is your responsibility. This can not only endanger your family's safety; it means that you must fix the problems before selling your home.
  
  With BAM members, their work is formally inspected by local government inspectors.
  
  
• Are you prepared to fix a home you no longer own?
  Unlicensed contractors do not have to abide by Minnesota's 10-year warranty law on the work they perform. Even if you've sold the home, you are responsible for any problems resulting from the work of unlicensed contractors for up to 10 years.
  
  Licensed contractors, by law, provide a 10-year warranty on all of their work.
  
  
• Can a contractor really run away with your money?
  If you are the victim of a scam artist posing as a contractor, s/he may never return tot he job after receiving your down payment.
  
  BAM members are professional licensed contrctors who live in and have ties to your communtiy.

Warning Signs to Spot Unlicensed Contractors:

• Does the contractor ask you to get the
  building or remodeling permit?
  If your name is on the permit, you are liable for any job-related injuries or items that do not pass inspection.
  
  
• S/he doesn't have a license number on
  his or her business card, truck, forms, advertising, etc.
  
  
• S/he can't provide references from other clients.
  
  
• S/he requests a down payment without a written contract.

BAM contractors are licensed, trustworthy professionals. They get their own permits, have license numbers and references, and provide you with written contracts.

Learn more about the Builders Association of Minnesota and its members