How to verify if a handyman/contractor is licensed and insured?

[Jessica Flint]

All you excellent contractors out there, or anyone who can help, I need to verify that a contractor is licensed and insured before I can start a job.  It's dealing with the sewer in the city, sidewalk replacement, blah blah.  City said he must be licensed and insured.  How does he prove that to me?

[Joe Splitrock]

You always need to verify with third party. Licensed contractors will be listed on a city or county website. Get the phone number of their insurance company and have the agent send you proof of insurance or bonding. Some cities required all licensed contractors to be insured or bonded.