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We are providing the following information for
your reference only. Please contact your
building inspector or attorney to be sure that you have the
latest most up-to-date
information as laws and regulations change.
Contractor License and Insurance.
We are providing this list and explanation of the most
commonly asked questions relative to licensing, insurance and
project protocol by you the homeowner. This information should
give you an idea of what questions you need to ask any contractor
whom you are planning on hiring to perform any project, regardless
of size.
Home improvement
The state of Mass requires that all contractors working
on all home improvement projects in excess of $1000.00 to have
a Home improvement License or (HIC)
Construction Supervisors License (CS)
Any contractors who are remodeling, or improving which
includes projects as small as window replacement including basement
windows, gutter replacement, fence installation, replacing of
electrical or plumbing fixtures and repairs or replacing of
masonry stairs up to and including major renovations and additions
and new construction projects must have a CS License
When a contractor acquires a permit for any project
in the state of mass it allows the homeowner certain rights
such as availability of a guarantee fund for uncompleted projects,
it also allows the state and the homeowner the means to be able
to locate any contractor as they may have different companies
but in most eases only one Construction Supervisors license.
There also is a penalty of up to $1000.00 per day that can be
Levied on the contractor for project not completed up to the
Building code.
The Building Code, The building code is set
of standards that need to be met by all contractors, the building
Inspectors are there to safeguard the public. Any contractor
not acquiring a Permit may have reasons for not acquiring a
permit that are not in the best interest of the homeowner; Reasons
such as their not being properly licensed or having insurance.
Insurance
Workers compensation
The state of Mass requires employers to provide Workers
comp insurance for their employees. This is the insurance that
protects you the homeowner from a claim made any employee or
subcontractor injured while working on your property for any
contractor. It covers injuries sustained while working on the
project on your property.
This is a costly insurance and depending on the trade
it could be up to 30% of payroll. As a result some unscrupulous
contractors seek to avoid carrying this mandatory coverage.
Worker’s comp is the most important form of insurance
that the homeowner need verify as being in force and covering
your specific project. Do not be shy, ask for a certificate
with your name and street address on it, it is your home you
are protecting.
Liability Insurance
Safeguards your property from any damage or
liability arising as a result of actions of a contractor or
their employees
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