Hiring a contractor is one of the bigger spending decisions most households make, and almost everything you need to check is already in public records. This page is a short checklist you can run through in about fifteen minutes.
Search the state licensing board for the contractor's name or license number. Look for an active status, a classification that matches your job, and an expiration date that does not fall in the middle of the project. Suspended or revoked results, or open disciplinary actions, deserve a closer look.
The secretary of state's business search shows whether the company legally exists, when it was formed and whether it is in good standing. The name on the registration should match the name on your estimate.
Many cities and counties publish permit data. A contractor with a history of finalized permits for similar work is a good sign. Ask who will pull the permit for your job; it should be the licensed contractor, not you.
Request a certificate of liability insurance and, if the contractor has employees, workers' compensation. Call the insurer to confirm the policy is current.
A written contract should list the scope, price, payment schedule, start and finish dates, and who handles permits and cleanup. Avoid large cash deposits up front.
Nearbia is a free directory of US local businesses built from public records: business registrations, contractor licenses and building permits, plus plain guides on checking a contractor license before you hire.
Published by Nearbia, 2026.