How to Check an Oregon Contractor's CCB License

In Oregon, anyone paid to do construction work on a home or other property generally needs a license from the Construction Contractors Board (CCB). Before you hire, ask for the CCB number and look it up yourself on the CCB's official license search. Confirm the license is active and bonded, and ask every contractor the same questions, including us.

Who needs a CCB license

The CCB says a license is generally needed for any paid construction work that improves real property. Its list includes roofing, siding, painting, carpentry, floor covering, concrete, heating and air conditioning, and handyman work. To get licensed, a contractor names a responsible managing individual who completes 16 hours of pre-license training and passes an exam, and the business carries a surety bond and liability insurance. Contractors who hire employees also need workers' compensation coverage.

How to look up a contractor

1. Ask for the contractor's CCB license number and the exact business name on the license.
2. Open the CCB license search at search.ccb.state.or.us. The CCB describes searching by license number as the most accurate way.
3. If you only have a name, search by business name or the contractor's last name, and filter for active records.
4. Check that the name and number on the license match the name and number on your estimate and contract.
5. Confirm the license is active and shows a surety bond.

Electricians, plumbers and other trade licenses

Some trades need a second license. The Oregon Building Codes Division issues electrical, plumbing, boiler, elevator and manufactured dwelling licenses for individuals and businesses. If your project includes electrical or plumbing work, ask who will do it and which license they hold.

Homes built before 1978

The CCB presumes homes built before 1978 have lead paint. Only contractors licensed for Lead-Based Paint Renovation can bid or work on those homes. The CCB counts it as renovation when the work disturbs more than six square feet of painted surface per room inside, or more than 20 square feet outside. This matters in Oregon because Census estimates show about 49 percent of the state's homes were built before 1980.

What the written contract should include

The CCB requires construction agreements above a set dollar amount to be in writing. The CCB recommends that all agreements be in writing, and says well-written contracts often include:

• The contractor's full name and CCB license number.
• A detailed description of the work.
• Start and completion dates.
• The total price and the payment schedule.
• A list of the permits the job needs and who will get them.
• A statement that changes are made only by written change orders signed by both the contractor and the homeowner.

Owner work and rental homes

Local rules can add limits. In Bend, for example, homeowners may do work on their own homes, but work on homes that are rented or leased must be done by a licensed contractor. Ask your local building department how this works where you live.