How to Check a Wisconsin Contractor Before You Sign

In Wisconsin, the person who pulls the building permit for work on a one- or two-family home usually needs a state Dwelling Contractor certification. Check that credential, and any trade licenses, in the state's LicensE license lookup. Then make sure the contract meets the state's home improvement rule, ATCP 110. Ask every contractor for the same proof, including us.

Who needs a Dwelling Contractor certification

Under the state's dwelling code (ch. SPS 320), a person who applies for a building permit for a one- or two-family dwelling must hold a Dwelling Contractor certification, a Dwelling Contractor Restricted certification or another dwelling contractor credential listed in the code. The applicant must also hold or employ a certified Dwelling Contractor Qualifier. State law lists limited exceptions, including owners who live or will live in the home.

DATCP explains that this certification shows the contractor carries worker's compensation, unemployment insurance, and minimum levels of liability insurance or a bond. That is one reason to confirm it before work starts.

How to look up a contractor

1. Ask for the exact business name and the credential numbers the contractor holds.
2. Search the public LicensE lookup, which DSPS says you can use to check the status of someone's credential.
3. Confirm the business holds a Dwelling Contractor certification and that a certified Dwelling Contractor Qualifier works for it.
4. Check that the names in the lookup match the names on your estimate and contract.
5. DATCP suggests checking a contractor's record with its Bureau of Consumer Protection.

Trade licenses are separate

• Electrical: with limited exceptions under state law, a business that installs, repairs or maintains electrical wiring needs a DSPS Electrical Contractor license. It must use licensed or registered electricians and put its license number on bids and contracts.
• Plumbing: the Wisconsin uniform building permit names the master plumber responsible for the plumbing work.
• Lead paint: paid work on homes and child-occupied facilities built before 1978 falls under the DHS Lead-Safe Renovation Rule. DHS handles certification for the companies and individuals who do this work.

What ATCP 110 requires in the contract

Under ATCP 110, a written contract is required if any payment is due before the work is done. DATCP lists what the contract should include:

• The salesperson's and company's names and street addresses, not just a post office box.
• A full description of the job and the materials, with brand names, sizes and quantities.
• The total price, including any finance charges.
• Start and completion dates.
• Any warranties, with their limits, in writing.

Lien waivers and cancellation

Before you sign, the contractor must give you a Notice of Consumer's Right to Receive Lien Waivers. DATCP advises asking for a lien waiver each time you make a payment, so unpaid suppliers cannot place a lien on your property. If you sign a contract at home, Wisconsin law generally gives you three business days to cancel.