Start with the exact project scope
Licensing and permit questions depend on the work being contracted. Write down the property, work areas, desired result, known damage, timing, and any insurance involvement before requesting bids. This helps each contractor price the same job.
Verify the contractor correctly
- Ask for the company’s Minnesota license number and legal name.
- Use Minnesota DLI’s lookup to check status and available enforcement information.
- Distinguish a contractor registration from a professional or company license.
- Request proof of current liability and workers’ compensation coverage as appropriate.
- Confirm who will obtain permits and schedule inspections with the governing building office.
Compare complete bids
- Materials, model, grade, color, and quantities.
- Labor, preparation, protection, cleanup, and disposal.
- Work excluded from the price.
- Allowance and change-order rules.
- Start conditions, estimated schedule, and weather handling.
- Product and workmanship warranty terms.
- Permit, inspection, tax, and payment responsibilities.
Use extra care with storm work
Do not let urgency replace verification. Ask how the scope relates to the insurer’s estimate, who communicates with the insurer, how deductibles and upgrades are handled, and what happens if coverage is denied or changed. Keep insurance documents and the construction contract separate and readable.
Control the project record
- Signed contract and approved changes.
- License and insurance verification notes.
- Permit number and inspection results.
- Product data, color selections, and warranties.
- Invoices, lien waivers when appropriate, and proof of payment.
- Photos before, during, and after the work.
If a problem develops
Raise the issue in writing with the contractor and describe the requested resolution. Preserve documents and photos. Minnesota DLI and the Minnesota Attorney General publish official paths for licensing questions, complaints, and consumer assistance; the correct path depends on the problem.
Use current official information
This resource is general information, not legal, financial, medical, licensing, or professional advice. Rules, hours, providers, and agency pages can change. Confirm decisions with the business and the responsible city, county, state, professional board, insurer, or other authority.