What's to Stop Me from Getting my GC License?

[Jason Polykoff]

Hi BP, quick question... If a GC is licensed and insured, can he/she sub out work to unlicensed repairmen? Would the repairmen ultimately be insured under the GC's insurance? If so, is there anything to stop someone from getting a GC license and getting insured, then subbing out all the work to uninsured workers? 

Thanks BP!

[Bruce Woodruff]

Originally posted by @Jason Polykoff:

Hi BP, quick question... If a GC is licensed and insured, can he/she sub out work to unlicensed repairmen? Would the repairmen ultimately be insured under the GC's insurance? If so, is there anything to stop someone from getting a GC license and getting insured, then subbing out all the work to uninsured workers? 

Thanks BP!

1) A licensed General Contractor can only sub work to other licensed sub-contractors

2) No every contractor must have their own specific insurance

3) Yes the law will stop you eventually. Along with sting operations conducted by the state's License Boards. Or you work for a wealthy customer who knows the deal and checks up on you. The fines and jail sentences are getting larger as they get more tired of the backlash of dealing with unlicensed work.

4) You act like you can just waltz in and walk out with a GC license....? Have you actually checked into this? Typically you need to prove 4 years or more experience at a journeyman level or higher and have a currently licensed GC certify this in writing under penalty of perjury. Then there are the trade and law exams, the background checks, the $$$. Why not just hire a GC to do what you want and stay legal, legit and ethical? Just asking....