where to check the company info.?

[smr]

One company told me they are authrozied in the government. I don't know what it means. Could anyone tell me where I can go to check if they have plumber license( or other licenses) or not?

[LazyPup]

It would depend on the regulations where you live. Some states issue the license, while in other jurisdictions it may be the county or municipality, or a combination of all the above. On the other hand, in some areas there is no license required.

All contractors licenses are numbered, and contractors are required to give you the license number when requested. The number usually will also tell what agency issued the license.

You can also call your local county or city government, Code Enforcement division and they can tell you if the contractor is licensed to work in your commmunity.

When considering a contractor you should also check to make sure they have liability insurance and if they employ 4 or more people, workmans comp insurance.

If the contractor or one of there helpers is injured while working on your home, and if they do not have workmans comp insurance, in some cases the homeowner can be held liable.

That is why we continually advise people,,get the license number, liability insurance carriers name & policy number, and workmans Comp policy number on your contract.

If you are considering a larger project, such as a remodel or new construction, contact the local "Better Buisness Burea". The contractor may not be a listed member, which only means he does not care to pay their annual fee's, but they will have a complaint file if that contractor has had problems in the past. Keep in mind that it is impossible to please all the people, all the time, so no doubt even the best contractor may have a complaint or two on file, but the shoddy fly by nites will stand out in the crowd.

If your planning a remodel or new construction, you might talk to your banker. Find out if they have dealt with this contractor and what their opinion is.

Above all, get references, not just the worn out praise letters they offer to show you, but a short list of customers who you can contact.

One great source of information about a contractor is the local commercial parts supply house. Those counter guys come in daily contact with nearly all the contractors in your area. They know who is busy as opposed to who has to beg for work. They also know the quality of the parts the contractors purchaxe. You cant do quality work with cheapo look alike materials.