Hello folks…
As I mentioned in an earlier post, I’m contemplating taking the plunge into doing remodeling/building professionally. I’m a bit confused about a few things and I hope someone in CT can help clarify them for me. My impression from the state website is that there is no specific license for commercial remodeling (stores, restaurants, etc)? Other than a “Remodelers” license, is there any other requirement on the part of the state? Also, is there anyplace you can suggest I read up on the requirements for when a permit needs to be pulled, and what scope of work I can legally perform myself? I’m pretty confident I know where my own limits are, but I don’t want to run afoul of the regulations. Thanks in advance for any help!
Paul
Replies
Check the Dept. of Consumer Affairs.
As for permits, call the Building Dept and simply ask. For the permits they will issue to you, they usuall ask for proof of liability ins, WC and state and/or local licensing.
Traditionally you cannot perform ANY plumbing or electrical work or HVAC installation. Most of the rest is covered under you remolders license.
The HVAC will be regulated by the license you need to purchase and recover materials.
Your liability ins will most likely limit what else you can do and be covered.
F.
To the best of my knowledge a "Home Improvement Contractor's Registration" is not required for commercial work in CT. And I don't know of any other requirements other than insurance and WC. But I don't do any commericial. Note that the above is a Registration and not a license even though the word license is used in the state literature. A license implies training and testing, none of which is required for this.
All you have to do is show them the money and your in the club.
i agree with the other post about calling for permits, but remember that they are going to tell you that a permit is required for a lot more than is customarily the case. What I mean is that if you are taking out a picture window and putting in a bay they will probably tell you that you need a permit. I don't know many contractors in Fairfield County that would actually pull one for something like that. I don't want to get you into trouble, when in doubt ask, but if it's non-structural with no or minimal mechanicals use your best judgement.
The best advice I can give you is if you do work without a permit never cut corners.
If you do gget surprised by an inspector usually its just a matter of pulling the permit. Some towns fine you by doubling the permit fee.
Edited 3/19/2004 4:26 pm ET by des
Thanks des, that seems to agree with what I've learned so far. I'm in the process of deciding how feasible (and smart) this career change I'm contemplating is... Pretty scary to dive into a new field after being in this one (photography) for literally 30 years (ever since High School)... thanks for the reply!