Customer Safeguards

In my experience, very few Homeowners are aware of the legal protections they have when they hire a licensed Contractor. Having a Contractor's license means that the Contractor has registered with the State and submitted proof of valid insurance and bond. These requirements protect Homeowners as follows—

Registration

Every licensed contractor must register with the Washington Department of Labor and Industries (L&I). Registration creates a public record of the proprietor's name and business address. It also creates a record for any complaints, lawsuits or other claims filed against the Contractor. As you can imagine, if a Contractor is dishonest or causing problems, this information can be invaluable to you. This information is easily available over the phone or online.

For more information on the status of my business, contact The Bellevue Department of Labor and Industries at 425-990-1400.

For access to the same information via the internet, click Check Contractor and look me up by my name [Gordon Morrow] or business name [Gordon Morrow Construction].

My registration number is GORDOMC006OK

Insurance

Insurance is protection in case of catastrophe. If disaster strikes (e.g., water damage when a protective tarp is blown off in a storm) the Contractor has insurance to cover repair costs. The amount of insurance is determined by the State and varies depending on the type of work the contractor does. For example, roofing is dangerous, risky work and roofing contractors must carry far more insurance than painting contractors, whose work is relatively low risk. Every contractor must provide proof of valid insurance to become licensed.

Bond

A Bond guarantees that anyone who is owed money by the contractor will be paid. Homeowners, building material suppliers or subcontractors who are owed money will be paid by the Bond Company if the Contractor defaults.

Conclusion

The State of Washington safeguards the property of Homeowners by requiring that all Contractors must be licensed. Every Licensed Contractor must carry proof in the form of a wallet-sized Registration Card and must post a Registration Certificate at his place of business. Ask to see it before signing anything.

Contact

If you have questions or are interested in scheduling a consultation,
please call me during regular work hours
at (206) 605-1645, Monday through Friday.

Or send an email to: