Before the deposit

Check a contractor before you pay.

Find the official license source, then verify status, trade classification, complaints, and name match before money changes hands.

License status Business-name match Complaint signals

Find the official check

Search by state, trade, business name, or license number.

State license sources

Contractor rules are fragmented. Start with the official state or local board, then verify the contract identity matches.

Guide

Verify a contractor license

Check the license number, legal business name, status, classification, expiration, and discipline history.

Guide

Check before paying a deposit

Verify license status, complaint history, bond/insurance requirements, and contract identity before sending money.

Guide

Roofing contractor check

Roofing rules vary heavily by state; start with state boards and local registration when required.

Guide

Electrical contractor check

Electrical licensing is often trade-specific and may not appear in a general contractor lookup.

Guide

Home improvement contractor check

Some states separate home-improvement registration from general contractor licensing.