How do I know if a contractor is bonded?

Most state licensing boards display bond status alongside license status. ContractorVetted shows this data where available.

What happens if a contractor's bond lapses?

If a bond lapses, the contractor's license is typically suspended automatically. This will show as "expired" or "suspended" on their license record.

Surety Bond

A surety bond is a three-party financial guarantee between a contractor (the "principal"), a bonding company (the "surety"), and the homeowner or project owner (the "obligee"). It protects the homeowner if the contractor fails to complete work, abandons a project, or causes financial harm.

Most states require contractors to maintain a surety bond as a condition of licensure. Bond amounts vary by state and license type — California requires general contractors to carry a $25,000 bond.

Surety bond vs. insurance: A bond protects the client; liability insurance protects the contractor against third-party claims. You want your contractor to have both.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a contractor is bonded?: Most state licensing boards display bond status alongside license status. ContractorVetted shows this data where available.
What happens if a contractor's bond lapses?: If a bond lapses, the contractor's license is typically suspended automatically. This will show as "expired" or "suspended" on their license record.

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