Does It Matter If a Contractor Isn’t Licensed?

Q:  Does it matter if a contractor isn’t licensed?  Can’t he do a good job one way or the other?

A:  Sure, he (or she) can.  A piece of paper does not a contractor make.

In fact, many states do not even license contractors.  Surprising, huh?  They may have licenses for specialized trades–electrical, asbestos removal, HVAC, plumbing, and so on–but not for contractors.  So, if you live in such a state, then obviously the contractor will not be licensed.

Not only that, but many homeowners believe that a contractor who is licensed and in good standing is a “good contractor.”  Not necessarily.  Being licensed–and not running afoul of the conditions of licensing–is just the bare minimum.  It just says:  This person is a contractor.  It is no reflection of his/her ability.

However, what if the contractor is not licensed?  Think about it.  What does this say?  He may have excuses (“Oh, I’ll get to it.” etc.), but this does not cut the mustard.  If the contractor cannot fulfill this bare minimum of licensure, you probably do not want to deal with this person.

Bottom line:  don’t go there.