There seems to be a lot of confusion these days regarding what it takes to become a remodeling contractor. Most people assume that a licensed contractor has to attend a trade school where they learn how to swing a hammer properly. However, this is not the case.
While understanding the basics of construction is important to becoming a contractor, the licensing process focuses very little on one's ability to swing a hammer. Instead, it focuses on making sure that the contractor understands how to run their business properly, and that they know the local building codes.
Just because a contractor is licensed, does not mean that he or she knows anything about the actual process of remodeling a home. While most contractors out there do actually know how to swing a hammer and complete the job on their own if necessary, there are some that do not. Many contractors got into the business after having experienced a remodeling nightmare.
The first step of getting licensed is to contact the local building department and asking them for information on obtaining your license. They will refer you to several schools in your area which will teach you what you need to know in order to take and pass the licensing test. These classes are usually a couple hundred dollars and last anywhere from 40 to 120 hours. After passing the class, then you will need to take the actual test elsewhere.
The test itself will also cost you another couple hundred dollars to take and the result will not be released for several weeks. However, it is important to remember that just because you have a license, does not mean you are allowed to practice until the other local stipulations are fulfilled. This will mean obtaining a local business permit, getting proper insurance coverage as well as obtaining an appropriate bond.
Once you are licensed, insured and bonded, you are allowed to work as a contractor. The hardest part is the time you will spend bidding on one job after another until you get your first job. It will get a lot easier once you complete your first remodeling contract. Also do not forget to be sociable so that you can find better specialists to call for certain parts of a remodeling job; electricians, HVAC, carpet and window specialists are important trade laborers who are needed in order to complete many different jobs.
The first step of getting licensed is to contact the local building department and asking them for information on obtaining your license. They will refer you to several schools in your area which will teach you what you need to know in order to take and pass the licensing test.
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