How Can I Check a Contractor's License in Tennessee?

You can check a Tennessee contractor's license for free in about two minutes at verify.tn.gov, the state's official license search. Look up the company or owner name, confirm the license is active, and make sure the license type and monetary limit fit the size of your job.

When does a contractor need a license in Tennessee?

Under the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors, anyone doing a project worth $25,000 or more (materials and labor combined) needs a state contractor's license. Some counties also require a home improvement license for residential remodeling jobs of a smaller size, and plumbing, electrical and HVAC work carry their own licensing and permit rules. When in doubt, ask the contractor which license covers your job, then check it yourself.

1. 1Go to verify.tn.gov.
2. 2Choose the contractor board and search by business name, owner name or license number.
3. 3Open the result and read the status, the classification (what kind of work it covers) and the monetary limit.
4. 4Check that the name on the license matches the name on your estimate and contract.

What should I look for on the result?

• Status: it should say active, not expired or suspended.
• Classification: a roofing job should be covered by a license that includes roofing or general building work.
• Monetary limit: the license should cover the full value of your project.
• Name match: a license held by a different company is not their license.

Is a license the same as insurance?

No. A license shows the state allows them to do the work. Insurance protects you if someone is hurt or your property is damaged. Ask for a certificate of general liability insurance, and workers' compensation where it applies, sent directly from their insurance agent.

What if the contractor is not licensed?

For jobs that legally require a license, walk away. For small jobs that do not, weigh reviews, insurance, a written scope and references more heavily. Never pay a large deposit to anyone you cannot verify.

Where can I find local contractors to check?

Browse general contractors, roofers, HVAC companies and plumbers across Middle Tennessee, or start from your town: Murfreesboro, Franklin, Nashville. MidTen Home Pros lists companies so you can contact them directly; always run your own license check before hiring.

Related: How to find a good contractor in Middle Tennessee.