Why licensing matters for remodels
In Minnesota, contractors who do residential building and remodeling work generally need to be licensed by the state. A license is not a guarantee of good work, but it means the contractor is on record with the state and can be checked. Hiring an unlicensed contractor can leave you with fewer options if something goes wrong.
How to look up a license on the DLI site
The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) generally offers an online license lookup. The steps are usually simple:
- Get the contractor's full business name and license number from their quote or contract.
- Open the license lookup on the DLI website and search by name or number.
- Check that the license is active and covers the kind of work you are hiring for.
- Make sure the name on the license matches the name on your contract.
Insurance and certificates
Ask for a certificate of insurance before work starts. It generally shows the coverage a contractor carries and when it expires. Check that it is current, and ask your contractor to have their insurance agent send it to you directly.
A written contract and itemized quote
Get everything in writing. An itemized quote breaks the job into materials, labor and any allowances, so you can compare bids on equal terms. The contract should name the scope of work, the schedule, the payment schedule and how changes will be priced and approved.
Permits
Many remodels need a building permit, especially when structural, electrical or plumbing work is involved. In most cases the licensed contractor pulls the permit for the work they perform. Ask who is responsible before you sign, and confirm what applies with your city or county building department.
Lien waivers and pre-lien notice
If a contractor does not pay a supplier or subcontractor, that party may in some cases have a right to file a lien against your property. Minnesota generally requires contractors to give homeowners a pre-lien notice. Ask for lien waivers as you make payments so you have a record that the people on your job have been paid.
Red flags
- A large cash deposit before any work or materials are on site
- No written contract, or a contract that is vague about the work
- Pressure to skip permits or inspections
- A license number that cannot be found or does not match the name
- Pressure to sign today, or a quote that is far below every other bid
How MedCity Construction fits
MedCity Construction connects homeowners with independent licensed partners. The work is performed and warranted by the partner, and partner license numbers are provided with every quote, so you can run the lookup above before you hire. Our partner crews are local licensed pros, and you are welcome to ask them any of the questions in this guide.
Related guides
- How long does a kitchen remodel take?
- All home project guides
- Our services
- What permits do you need for a remodel in Rochester?
Licensed contractor FAQs
Does a handyman need a license in Minnesota?
It depends on the work. Residential building contractors and remodelers generally need a state license, and some trades such as electrical and plumbing have their own licensing rules. A handyman doing small jobs may fall outside those rules, so check the DLI lookup before you hire.
What should a remodeling contract include?
In most cases: the contractor's name and license details, a clear description of the work and materials, the start and finish dates, the payment schedule, how changes are handled, and who pulls permits. Get it in writing and signed before work starts.
Who pulls the building permit?
Generally the licensed contractor pulls the permit for the work they perform. Ask who is responsible before you sign, and be cautious of anyone who suggests skipping a permit. Your city or county building department can confirm what applies.
How do I check a contractor's insurance?
Ask for a certificate of insurance and, where you can, have it sent to you directly by the contractor's insurance agent. Check that the policy is current and that the name matches the contractor you are hiring.