Do I need a license to hire a general contractor?

You don't need a license to hire a general contractor—that's on them, not you. However, general contractors should be licensed in most states, so you'll want to verify theirs before hiring.

What you should check: - Ask for their license number and verify it with your state's licensing board - Confirm they have liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage - Check for complaints on the Better Business Bureau or state contractor boards - Get everything in writing (contract, timeline, costs)

Why it matters: A licensed contractor has met education and experience requirements, maintains insurance, and is accountable to regulatory bodies. If something goes wrong, you have recourse. Unlicensed contractors pose serious risks—poor work quality, no insurance coverage if someone gets hurt, and legal liability issues for you.

Some states and cities have stricter requirements than others, so licensing rules vary by location. It's worth a quick call to your local building department to confirm what applies in your area. This protects both you and your project!