The state of Minnesota has seen a steady rise in residential construction over the past few years, which means plenty of opportunities for contractors. The weather conditions in the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” for at least six months out of the year make it extremely important that contractors know the building codes to build residential structures that will stand up to the abuse. A contractor learns all about the Minnesota building codes while preparing to get their residential contractor license, but building codes are not all a contractor needs to know to get their licenses.
A Minnesota residential building contractor license can help you get your company off the ground.
Residential Contractor Definition
The state of Minnesota uses the term “residential building contractor‘ in all of its licensing, and that license allows a contractor to construct new residential structures, as well as remodel existing structures. The state also offers a residential real estate license to contractors who just want to build new structures and not remodel existing ones, and a license for residential remodeler for those contractors that just want to remodel properties. There is also a separate license available for companies that only want to work on roofing projects called a residential roofer license.
Specialty Licenses
Along with its standard contracting licenses, the state also offers specialty licenses for:
- Asbestos abatement
- Lead abatement
- Electrician
- Plumber
Each specialty license requires a certain amount of classroom education and work experience before the contractor can take the test.
Continuing Education Requirements
In Minnesota, a contractor must take 14 hours of state approved classes in order to qualify to take the contractor license test. A state residential building contractor license must be renewed every two years, and the contractor is required to take 14 hours of classroom training prior to taking the test to renew their license.
Fees
The fees a contractor pays to get their residential building contractor license and to renew it every two years are based on the gross receipts of the company. As of 2017, the requirements are:
- For less than $1 million in annual gross receipts, the licensing fees are $520 for a new license and $525 for a renewal
- For annual gross receipts of $1 million to $5 million the licensing fees are $620 for a new license and $625 for a renewal
- For annual gross receipts that are $5 million or more the licensing fees are $720 for a new license and $725 for a renewal
It is important to note that the fees for specialty licenses are not the same as the general residential building contractor license, but do follow the same schedule based on annual gross receipts.
Remember to include proof of your insurance and all of your fees with your Minnesota licensing application.
Insurance Required
To become a Minnesota residential building contractor, you need to pass your exam and submit the following completed documents:
- Workers’ compensation coverage
- General liability insurance coverage
- Payment to the state’s recovery fund based on annual gross receipts
- Criminal background check form
The contractor would submit the completed package, along with their certificate for passing the exam, to the state to receive their license.
PDH Contractors can help you to get your classroom hours logged for your Minnesota residential building contractor license and help you get your company up and going. Simply start a course with PDH Contractors and you will have access to the state approved courses you need to pass your test. PDH Contractors also has all of the latest information you will need to keep your contracting business ahead of the competition throughout the state of Minnesota.