State Contractor License Update

For Immediate Release: November 6, 2009
Contact: Tony Hozeny, Department of Commerce, 608-267-9661

MADISON - Building contractors are required to register with the Department of Commerce (Commerce) as a result of an administrative rule change in Ch. Comm 5, Wis. Adm. Code, and finalized March 2, 2009. The rule applies to businesses, including one person shops that act as building contractors or subcontractors that are involved in the construction or modification of public buildings, places of employment and one- and 2- family dwellings and are not already credentialed by Commerce.

"Contractor registration enables consumers to check an on-line registry when they consider hiring a contractor for a construction project," said Commerce Secretary Richard J. Leinenkugel. "It also enhances the department's ability to identify, communicate with and educate contractors and subcontractors of consumer protection issues, best practices, and changes in codes and regulations."

Seasonal construction work usually requires a license

Property owners and contractors are reminded by Commerce officials that most seasonal construction projects require permits and licenses to do the work.

Heating, insulation, carpentry, electrical projects, and plumbing are a few of the areas that are covered under state regulations that aim to keep residences and commercial property safe and energy efficient.

Even if home owners pull permits from the local municipality (rather than have the contractor get the permit); the contractor business could need a license or other credential issued by Commerce. Sub-contractors need credentials, too. Dry wall and carpet installing businesses, for example, may need to be registered as a building contractor, even if it's a one-person business.

Electrical contractors and dwelling contractors are certified by Commerce. HVAC contractors are registered and commercial building contractors need the building contractor registration.

Contractor businesses that previously may not have needed a credential often now need the relatively new Building Contractor Registration. That program is described online at http://commerce.wi.gov/SB/SB-BuildingContractorProgram.html.

Local city, village and town officials who oversee issuing permits and help maintain the quality of construction in their municipalities are in the best position to evaluate what is needed for specific projects. Local officials should always be contacted before beginning construction projects, including alterations and repairs.

Home owners or businesses can check contractors' credentials online at: http://commerce.wi.gov/SB/SB-CredList.html.

Staff of the Safety and Buildings Division of Commerce is available to clarify what credentials contractors need. Go online to get information on the various types of credentials, http://commerce.wi.gov/SB/SB-DivCreds.html, or call 608-261-8467.

Building or remodeling a structure is a major expense for both businesses and consumers. Both will find it helpful to check whether a contractor has registered with the department.

Commerce has posted the registry on the internet, where it is available to consumers available to the Wisconsin Departments of Workforce Development and Revenue. These agencies can use the registry to help them minimize the misclassification of employees as contractors and maximize contractor participation in both the unemployment insurance and workers' compensation programs.

A contractor registration will cost $100 for a 4-year term if applied for electronically and $115 if applied for via paper. Contractors can register at http://commerce.wi.gov/SB/SB-BuildingContractorProgram.html. Consumers can check the registry at www.commerce.wi.gov/SB/docs/SB-CredListBuildingContractors.xls.

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