How to Check a Contractor’s License in Minnesota

Minnesota’s residential contractor rules depend on the skill mix and the type of work. The Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) requires residential building contractor or remodeler licensing when a business contracts with a homeowner to improve a dwelling by offering more than one special skill. Roofing has its own classification rules.

Identify the tasks before searching

Ask the contractor to write down each task. “Handyman repair” can conceal several skills, such as drywall repair, electrical fixture work, plumbing, and finish carpentry. Separate the tasks and ask which DLI credential covers them. Then search the business license number through DLI’s license and registration lookup and compare the entity with the estimate.

DLI credentials are generally business licenses, though a sole proprietor may be licensed as an individual. If the record is under a related name, ask the contractor to explain the business relationship before you sign.

Roofing license does not always cover the whole exterior bid

DLI says residential roof work can be performed under a roofer, remodeler, or residential building contractor license. A roofer’s scope is narrower: the roofer license alone does not cover gutters, downspouts, soffit, fascia, or other residential work. If a Minneapolis roofing estimate includes new gutters or fascia, ask which credential covers those line items.

Have the bid separate shingles, underlayment, flashing, ventilation, decking allowance, gutter work, disposal, and cleanup. If insurance is involved, read every document before signing. DLI warns that a form presented as permission to inspect or speak with an insurer may actually authorize repair work.

Check an exemption with the state

DLI lists an exemption for certain businesses whose annual gross receipts from residential contracting or remodeling are under $15,000, but the contractor must obtain a certificate of exemption each year. If this is the basis for not having a license, ask to see the current certificate and confirm it in the state lookup. A small estimate alone does not prove the exemption applies.

Call the local building department about permits and inspections. Check insurance independently, and keep the license result, contract, photos, permits, insurance communications, and change orders together.

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