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So, you are planning to start a construction contracting business in Ohio? Like most other US states, if you want to be a professional contractor in Ohio and do residential or commercial work, you’ll need to meet the local contractor bonding and licensure standards. In the Buckeye State, contractor licensing is applied for and issued at the local level.
If you have the right information, becoming a licensed contractor in Ohio doesn’t have to be difficult. In this article, we’re explaining how to get your Ohio contractor license step by step.
Decide on the Type of Contractor License
When it comes to contractor licensing, each city has specific requirements. For instance, building contractors in Columbus must have either a General Contractor License or a Home Improvement Contractor License, whereas in the City of North Canton all contractors performing construction work must register with the city.
So, once you’ve decided where you’ll start your business, make sure you apply for all of the necessary licenses from the local authorities.
Fill in the Required Application Forms
The application for a home improvement contractor will ask you to confirm that you meet the standards and to describe your scope of work. Download and complete out the printable home improvement contractor application. Make sure to have your application notarized otherwise it will not be processed.
The application forms for the City of Columbus can be found through the Department of Building and Zoning Services.
The form for the City of Warrensville is available on the city’s Forms and Permits page.
The form for the City of North Canton is can be accessed through the city’s Department of Permits and Development.
Obtain the Required Documentation
Home Improvement applicants are required to submit proof of work experience and submit a copy of exam results. General Contractor applicants will need to provide proof of at least a $500,000 liability insurance policy.
This type of insurance can protect your business against claims involving property damage, accidents, and customer injuries resulting from your work. Nowadays, you can look at Ohio business insurance online and choose the policy that best suits your needs. In just a few minutes, you can purchase coverage and share your certificate of insurance.
You will also need proof that you have been a registered engineer in Ohio for at least 3 years or proof of being a tradesperson working under a licensed contractor on projects that required a permit. Proof can include the license number of the contractor you worked under, W-2s, or a permit.
Pass the License Exam
In some cities like Columbus, all applicants must pass the Ohio Home Improvement Contractor – 767 exam administered by an approved testing agency with a grade of at least 70%. For more information and scheduling the test, contact the International Code Council.
Obtain a Contractor License Bond
A contractor license bond is a legally enforceable contract that protects you, your clients, and the general public and is required to obtain a contractor license.
The City of Columbus requires all applicants to obtain a $25,000 bond and enclose the bond form in the application packet. In Warrensville, the bond should be in the amount of $5,000, whereas in North Canton, the applicants must submit an original $10,000 bond.
Submit Your Application
Completed and notarized applications, as well as the application fee, should be mailed or delivered in person.
Application and licensing fees:
In the City of Columbus, the registration fee for General Contractor applications is $350 and for Home Improvement License applications, the fee is $185 (non-refundable). The fee is paid yearly and the registrations are valid for 12 months after they’ve been issued.
In the City of Warrensville, payments can be with a certified or company check, bank card, or money order. Cash and personal checks are not be accepted.
In the City of North Canton, payments can be made with a check, credit card, or exact cash only. The registration fee is $150.
In Conclusion
You’ve come to the right place if you have ever considered becoming a licensed contractor in the state of Ohio. We hope this step-by-step guide helped you get a general idea of what the procedure for contractor licensing looks like and what documents you will need in order to get the license as soon as possible.
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