How to Check a Home Improvement Contractor in New York

New York State does not issue a general contractor or home improvement contractor license. Licensing is local. The Attorney General's office says home improvement contractors must be licensed in New York City and in Suffolk, Nassau, Westchester, Putnam and Rockland counties. Wherever you live, state law requires a written contract.

Where a local license applies

• New York City: the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) requires a Home Improvement Contractor license for construction, repair, remodeling or other home improvement work on residential property.
• Westchester County: county law requires a license, and the Department of Consumer Protection keeps a list of licensed contractors.
• Suffolk, Nassau, Putnam and Rockland counties: the Attorney General lists these as places where a license is required. Check with the county.
• Elsewhere in the state: ask your city, town or village what it requires.

How to look up a contractor in New York City

1. Search the business in DCWP's online Search Business tool to see whether it holds a DCWP license.
2. For licensed trades such as plumbers and electricians, and for engineers and architects, use the Department of Buildings Know Your Construction Professional directory. It shows license and disciplinary records.
3. Match the name and number on the license to the name on your contract.

What state rules say about the contract and payments

• The contract must be in writing.
• The Attorney General says contractors must deposit progress payments in escrow, or may obtain a bond instead. Ask which one your contractor uses.
• Ask for proof of insurance, as the Attorney General advises.

Asbestos survey before renovation

The New York State Department of Labor requires the owner to get an asbestos survey by a certified state asbestos inspector before demolition, renovation, remodel or repair work. Copies go to the local permit office and the regional Asbestos Control Bureau office. Buildings exempt from the survey, such as those built on or after January 1, 1974, must be treated as containing asbestos unless a survey shows otherwise. Asbestos contractors must be licensed and all workers on asbestos projects must be certified.

Lead paint in older homes

If the home was built before 1978, EPA requires anyone paid to disturb painted surfaces to be certified and use lead-safe work practices. In New York City, Local Law 1 of 2004 adds rules for many older units where a child under six lives.