Arizona's contractor rules give homeowners real protection, but only if the contractor is properly licensed. Here's what to check before you hire.
Check the license
Look up the business at roc.az.gov. Confirm the license is active, that the classification matches the work (roofing, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, or general residential), and whether there are complaints or disciplinary history.
Know the handyman limit
Without a license, a person may only do minor work that totals under $1,000 for labor and materials and doesn't need a permit. Larger jobs, or anything that needs a permit, require a licensed contractor. Splitting a project into small invoices doesn't change that.
Contract and payment
- Get a written contract with scope, materials, price, schedule and warranty
- Confirm who pulls permits. It should be the contractor.
- Keep deposits reasonable and tie payments to completed milestones
- Get lien waivers from subcontractors and suppliers on large jobs
Red flags
- Cash-only, or a big deposit before any material is ordered
- Pressure to sign today
- "We don't need a permit for that" on work that clearly does
- No physical business address