Pulling permit for 5 unit in MA - do I have to use a contractor?

[TD Wolf]

My insurance company is requiring a repair and I'd like to do the work myself; however, according to the city of Gardner, anything over two-units requires a licensed contractor to do the work. Does anyone know if it's possible to get an exemption from this rule? Seems kind of rigid. Have you successfully pulled a permit for a 3+ unit in MA before without a contractor? If not, do you know any reputable, licensed contractors in the Gardner/greater Worcester area?

Thanks!

[Jonathan Bombaci]

Do you live in the property? If YES then go down to the town and talk to them. Every town in MA is different, which keeps things interesting, but many towns have a loophole for being able to do your own work on your primary residence. 

If it is a strict investment property then I would recommend having a licensed contractor pull the permit, do the job, and get it signed off on by the town. Your insurance company may ask to see the receipt and/or a copy of the contractors insurance once the job is done so it's good to have your bases covered. 

I do know a licensed and insured contractor out of the Worcester area that is used to doing work on rentals (His company owns rentals themselves) that I could recommend, you maybe able to work something out with him. If you're interested just PM me.