State of Louisiana Licensing Board for Contractors

Hurricane Katrina Disaster Relief Information

►	Contracting Questions Hotline 1-800-256-1392
►	Message to contractors applying for a Louisiana contractors license or home improvement registration.
►	How can I get a contractor application?
►	Information for out of state contractors

►	How can I verify the contractor I want to hire is licensed?
►	How not to become a victim twice
►	Safety tips for hiring a contractor

Contractor Information

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-	All contractors and subcontractors requiring a commercial, mold remediation, or residential license or home improvement registration must complete and submit applications as soon as possible.
-	The length of time needed to process an application and issue a license/registration is dependent upon the completeness of the application submitted and the applicant successfully meeting all requirements for licensure/registration.

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How can I get a contractor application?


-	Pick one up at 2525 Quail Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
-	Request one be mailed to you at 1-800-256-1392
-	Request via email capplications@lslbc.louisiana.gov for commercial and mold applications
-	Request via email rapplications@lslbc.louisiana.gov for residential or home improvement registration applications

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Information for out of state contractors


-	LA. R.S. 37:2150-2192 – The Contractor Licensing Law requires licensure for commercial, residential, industrial, hazardous, mold remediation, and registration for home improvement projects before bidding or performing work.
-	Obtain an application by:
	-	Pick one up at 2525 Quail Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 4:30pm
	-	Request one be mailed to you at 1-800-256-1392
	-	Request via email capplications@lslbc.louisiana.gov for commercial and mold applications
	-	Request via email rapplications@lslbc.louisiana.gov for residential or home improvement registration applications
	AVOID COSTLY DELAYS AND LEGAL ISSUES!

Victim Information

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How can I verify the contractor I want to hire is licensed?


-	Search licensed contractors via our website - click here
-	Call us at 1-800-256-1392
-	Send your request via email capplications@lslbc.louisiana.gov for commercial and mold contractors
-	Send your request via email rapplications@lslbc.louisiana.gov for residential or home improvement registration contractors

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How not to become a victim twice.


-	Check out your contractor – Contractors must be licensed to bid & perform work in Louisiana
-	Require a written contract
-	Require proof of General Liability & Worker’s Compensation Insurance
-	Never pay more than 10% down payment in advance of project start
-	Pay invoices for actual work completed
-	Report complaints to Contractor Licensing Board at 1-800-256-1392 or email us at complaints@lslbc.louisiana.gov

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Safety tips for hiring a contractor


-	Verify the license with the La. Contractor Licensing Board at 1-800-256-1392 or online - click here
-	Get the name and business address and license number of the contractor
-	Get at least three bids for the project costs
-	Require a written contract
-	Estimated dates of start and completion
-	A description of the work to be performed
-	The total dollar amount to be paid to the contractor upon completion of work
-	Ask for lien releases for any subcontractors prior to paying a progress billing for the work. Verify lien releases with subcontractors
-	Document all your concerns before they become serious
-	The dollar amount of any down payment (should not exceed $10,000 or no more than 10% whichever is less) and progress payments the contractor is entitled to collect during the project.
-	Never pay for construction not yet completed
-	Report complaints to 1-800-256-1392 or email us at complaints@lslbc.louisiana.gov