Licensing Requirements: How To Become A Concrete Contractor In West Virginia
You always want to make sure that you are covering all your bases when applying for a license. Here is what you need to do:
Who Needs
A License?
In other words, concrete repair, resurfacing and installation will fall under the definition of a general contractor. The state has its own licensing process which you will need to undergo, and you must register your business with the West Virginia Secretary of State. Hiring multiple employees will also require you to have workers’ compensation insurance.
West Virginia reviews and approves licensure for several different trades, including electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. Furthermore, without a license, you won’t be able to work on projects that exceed $1,000 in total value. Each classification of licensure will have different requirements in terms of licensing and insurance coverage.
What Do You Need
To Do?
The state of West Virginia has a similar licensing process to other states. There are a few variations, and we will explain those differences in detail. This what you can expect:
- Contact the West Virginia Division of Labor – You will need to reveal the scope and size of the work you plan on doing. A concrete contractor is considered a general building contractor in West Virginia. The state will review all of your information.
- Take and pass your licensing exams – This includes the Business & Law exam as well as the trade exam specific to the kind of work you perform. Not every contractor will need to take the trade exam. The West Virginia Department of Labor lists every classification of licensure on its website.
- Register your business – You will need to do this through the West Virginia Tax Department and get a unique tax number.
- Sign up for insurance – This includes unemployment and workers’ compensation insurance. You will need to produce proof of insurance by including the proper documentation when submitting your application. Contractors are not required by the state to have general liability insurance. That being said, having it will offer financial and legal protections. Clients are also more likely to do business with you if you possess liability insurance.
- Sign for surety bonds – Surety bonds also offer you additional financial protection. If you are unable to complete a project, then a surety bond will prevent you from having to pay out of pocket.
- Print out and complete the application – This is the final stage of the application process. You will need to send it along with all the relevant information and items to West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board. You must also pay a licensing fee of $90.
Contractor’s
Exam
Exam
Fees
Business
Licenses And Registration
Any business that operates within the state of West Virginia will need to fulfill certain tax obligations, including tax withholding, sales and use tax (seller’s permit), and unemployment insurance tax. You will also need to have Workers’ Compensation Insurance through a commercial provider or state program. Your coverage will vary according to the type of work you provide.