If you’re planning to hire a contractor for a spring building or remodeling project, the state Construction Contractors Board (CCB) has made it easier than ever to verify that the contractor is licensed and legal to work in Oregon. Simply text a CCB license number to 1-503-444-8898. You will receive a reply with the license status and expiration date. Anyone who does repairs, remodeling or new construction must be licensed with the state, and any advertising must include the CCB number. “Licensed contractors have bonds and insurance that offer some financial protection to homeowners should a problem arise,” said Berri Leslie, interim CCB administrator. “And, we’ll help mediate any disputes if you’re working with a licensed contractor.” A residential general contractor, for example, carries a $20,000 bond that can provide restitution in a dispute. Licensed contractors also carry liability insurance that covers property damage or personal injury they might cause. CCB surveys from recent years show that more than 70 percent of homeowners know that contractors must be licensed. However, more than half of people hiring contractors for major projects do not verify the license. “It only takes a few seconds to verify that a contractor’s license is active,” Leslie said. “Most construction projects go smoothly when you do your homework by researching the contractor and by making informed decisions during the project.” Other ways to check license status You can also check license status, file complaints and report illegal activity by visiting www.oregon.gov/ccb. Or, call 503-378-4621. For other tips on how to avoid remodeling and construction problems, visit http://ccbed.ccb.state.or.us/WebPDF/CCB/Publications/16-ways.pdf.
