Contractors need be aware of new law in Arkansas

According to Gwen Green, Communication Coordinator, UALR Lead Center, a new law in Arkansas requires home improvement contractors to be licensed.


Under a new state law, contractors doing home improvement or remodeling in Arkansas must have a license for jobs over $2,000, starting in 2012. According to the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board, effective Jan. 1, 2012, "Act 1208 of 2011 requires almost anyone doing work at a residence, when the project is $2,000 or more, labor and material, to have a license from the Contractors Licensing Board." The measure applies to almost all construction trades.

A "grandfathering" period began July 27 and will run through Dec. 31, 2011. During the grandfathering period, contractors can obtain a license without a test by submitting proof of construction experience. Click here for the grandfathering application. Starting Jan. 1, a license will be required, and contractors will have to complete a test to get a license. The penalty for performing work at a residence without a license can be up to $400 per day. There are exemptions to the law; for example, subcontractors working for properly licensed contractors are exempt.

For more information, contact the Contractors Licensing Board  in  North Little Rock at (501) 372-4661.