In Arkansas, there are four types of contractor's licenses, including the residential license, and obtaining a contractor's license is mandatory under specific circumstances. Below, we will provide a comprehensive overview of some of the requirements.
Who is a Residential Building Contractor
A residential building contractor supervises the construction of single-family homes, which are properties with one to four separate living spaces. This contractor is responsible for completing or overseeing the remodeling, renovation, alteration, modification, demolition, or addition to a single-family residence or its property.
When Do You Need a License
A contractor must hold a residential contractor's license when working on a residential project with a contract price over $50,000.
How to Obtain a Residential License
To apply for an original or renewed residential contractor's license in Arkansas, you need to be ready to submit the following documents, along with any additional information that the Arkansas Residential Contractors Committee may request:
1. Complete the application form.
2. Pay the application fee. Your initial application fee may be waived if you are eligible for the Workforce Expansion Act of 2021.
3. Provide details of your experience, ability, and the performance of previous contracts.
4. Provide three references not affiliated with banking or supply industries who can verify your work experience.
5. Pass the Arkansas Business and Law test and submit a copy of your score.
6. Provide a compiled report from a CPA showing a positive net worth.
7. Pass the Residential Building Contractor exam after pre-approval.
You may apply for a residential remodeler's or home improvement license if you do not need a complete builder's license. With a residential remodeler's license, you cannot build new homes but provide remodeling work or complete an addition. A home improvement license is for contractors who offer specialty trades such as roofing, painting, tile installation, etc.
For more information, call 501-374-9977 to speak with one of the attorneys at the Davidson Law Firm today.
