We all know that starting your own business can be a lucrative affair. Not only is it financially rewarding, but you can also earn money while doing something you love. Alas, if only things were so simple. There are certain hurdles and complications one must get past to reap the rewards. One of the first obstacles is acquiring a contractor license. The requirements vary from state to state, but a few general rules apply everywhere. It is essential not to go into something without being fully prepared and knowing what it entails. Below are painting contractor license requirements explained.
Education
Not surprisingly, a common requirement is to provide proof of passed law, trade and/or business exams. Certain states have their own state certification exams. At the end of the day, you need to prove you know how to do what you claim you know how to do. Seems reasonable enough.
Experience
This is again proof that you can deliver what you claim you can. The amount of experience you need will vary. Florida asks for at least four years of prior work experience, Arizona asks for proof of experience working under a licensed contractor (1 or 2 years depending on the license type), and so on. This will depend on where you are located, so be sure to check if you meet the requirements.
Insurance
This one is a common requirement. Liability is always a serious issue, and a painting contractor is no exception. The three most common are:
- Surety Bond – This is mainly needed when a project you are undertaking exceeds a specific financial limit. When there is big money involved, the state needs to know there is an insurance company (surety) there to cover any possible claims and costs that you might not be able to pay.
- Workers Compensation – Some states may require you to have this if you have people in your employ.
- General Liability Insurance – It protects you and your business. You’ll need it in case of third-party claims, whether about bodily harm or property damage.
Financial Backing
There is one more caveat that a lot of states impose. They may ask for a financial statement. To show its legitimacy, it should be signed by a certified public accountant. What does it prove? Quite simply, it’s proof of your financial stability.
Expensive Moves
If you are reading about licenses, chances are you want to start your own business. Maybe you are upgrading or deciding to go alone after working with others for a long time. Most costs will already be known to you, but there is one that many forget. The move itself. Business moving expenses seem to creep up on you out of the blue. While you are busy obtaining liability insurance, drawing up a business plan, and taking stock of supplies, you forget that business move expenses can add up. Fortunately, there is an affordable way to transfer your business. If you read up on the available tips and tricks, you can save money and even make the process more time-efficient.
Picture Perfect
The painting contractor license requirements may seem tricky, but it’s just a matter of collecting all the needed documents in time. If you don’t get caught off guard, the process can be as smooth as an elegant brush stroke. It is always about having the discipline and patience to see the paperwork through to the end. Maybe you are lucky and live in a state that has less rigorous rules. Perhaps you live somewhere where the requirements are pretty stringent. In either case, if you have the needed qualifications, there is no reason to fret!