Requirements of a Georgia Home Remodeler

Requirements of a Georgia Home Remodeler

Requirements to be a Georgia home remodeler contractorHomeowners have become extremely proficient at DIY home improvement projects, thanks to programs on HGTV and YouTube videos. From replacing bathroom tile to hanging drywall in that unfinished room, DIY has become the norm for home renovations. With that being said, there are some home projects that are usually too big to handle on your own. That's why it is important to understand Georgia home remodeler requirements, so you can select a specialized contractor for projects like building a deck or installing gutters, which are strictly regulated and require rigorous safety precautions.

What does it take to become a certified contractor in Georgia? Why should you always look for the proper licensing before the first hammer is lifted? To become a certified contractor in Georgia, applicants must be licensed through the State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors. The Board was created by the Georgia General Assembly to regulate contractors that work in renovation and construction. The team consists of 15 members who represent the industry and its consumers and set rules and standards for certification and operation. They also investigate and discipline practice that fails to meet the standards set by the Board.

Who Needs Certification?

There are four primary classes of contractors that require licensing:

  • Residential-Basic Contractors - working on one and two-family residences and one-family townhouses not taller than three stories
  • Residential-Light Commercial Contractors - includes multifamily and multiuse light commercial buildings
  • General Contractors - any type of renovation and construction work
  • General Contractor Limited Tier - any type of renovation and construction contracts limited to $500,000 or less

How Do Contractors Become Certified?

It's not as simple as turning in an application and paying a fee. Applicants must pass a rigorous two-part exam over business law and the specific license for which they are applying. This exam is prepared by the residential contract division.

Other requirements for eligibility for a Georgia contractor license:

  • Be at least 21 years old
  • Is of good character and displays competency, ability and integrity and financial responsibility
  • Has at least two years of proven work experience as a residential contractor or other substantial proven experienced in a similar division
  • Has had significant responsibility and successful completion of at least two projects in the two years previous to submitting the application
  • Consent to a background check, including criminal history
  • Include a list of all persons, entities and businesses in which they will be affiliated with as a licensed residential contractor
  • Provide proof of general liability insurance for no less than $300,000
  • Provide federal taxpayer identification numbers
  • Pass an examination for reading plans and specifications, knowledge of building codes, estimating costs, construction, ethics, contracting, laws of the state, workers' compensation, insurance and other similar matters pertaining to residential contracting

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After showing proof of workers compensation insurance, if required by Georgia law and general liability insurance, applicants who pass the test will become certified contractors. If the applicant fails once, a reexamination may be scheduled within one year. If a third attempt results in failure, the applicant must wait at least one calendar year after the examination.

Before you start your next home improvement project on your own, think about the regulations and safety precautions that need to be taken. Seeking a qualified home remodeler will save you money and time in the long run. EXOVATIONS is proud to be named as one of the Top 500 Remodelers in the United States. We have earned a number of awards and certifications in our nearly 20 years serving the North Georgia community. To learn more about certified contractors or to for a free quote on your next home remodel, please contact us.

EXOVATIONS Service Area

Our team is dedicated to providing stress-free home exterior services on time and on budget. As a Georgia-based company, we have worked for years throughout these cities and their surrounding areas, building a reputation as a trustworthy remodeling company that customers can rely on. Our friendly staff is here to provide suggestions and resources to ensure the job gets done in the most efficient manner, so you can save time and energy when tackling your next project.

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