Safeguarding Your Home from Unlicensed General Contractors in NC

The issue of unlicensed general contractors has been and continues to be an area of concern for North Carolina homeowners. Too often, we see clients who have been victimized by an unlicensed contractor. The best way to avoid this situation is to do your due diligence and thoroughly investigate the licensure and credentials of any person or company that you may hire to perform any significant work on your property.

If you've been the victim of an unlicensed general contractor in Wake County or surrounding communities, don't hesitate to contact the Doyle Law Offices, P.A. Our team of experienced civil litigation attorneys is here to assist area homeowners in navigating the complexities of construction-related disputes. 

North Carolina's Licensing Requirements for General Contractors

North Carolina law defines a general contractor as any person or company that oversees or manages construction projects when the costs of that project exceed $40,000.00 (N.C. Gen. Stat. §87-1). In that situation, the general contractor must be duly licensed by the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors. 

In order for the licensing board to issue a license, the contractor must file an application, pass an examination, and meet minimum financial requirements. This requirement is to ensure that those individuals and companies handling construction projects of this size have a certain level of skill and solvency to protect the public. 

Risks of Hiring Unlicensed General Contractors

Too many individuals that claim to be “general contractors” are actually unlicensed. Often, this fact does not come up until the homeowner is faced with defective work or the “contractor” takes their money and fails to complete the project. Then it can be too late for the homeowner to receive compensation. The unlicensed “contractor” may disappear, file bankruptcy, or otherwise be unable and unwilling to make things right with the homeowner.

Taking Legal Action Against Unlicensed General Contactors 

It is also important to note that while the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors allows homeowners to file complaints against unlicensed contractors, the board has no power to force the unlicensed contractor to reimburse the customer and honor the business contract. All the licensing board can do is take legal action to enjoin the unlicensed contractor from victimizing more people in the future.

Always check the North Carolina Licensing Board’s website to see if the contractor you are thinking about hiring is actually licensed. Don’t take their word for it, and don’t rely on social media reviews. When making this kind of investment in your home, it pays to do your homework prior to signing a contract with anyone.

How Business Litigation Lawyers in Wake Forest Can Help

Fortunately, a business litigation attorney can help handle disputes with unlicensed general contractors. Here’s how: 

• Expert Guidance: We provide expert guidance on navigating complex legal issues related to unlicensed general contractors.
• Contract Review: We thoroughly review contracts to ensure compliance with legal requirements and protect your interests in case of disputes.
• Legal Representation: In the event of a dispute with an unlicensed contractor, we provide skilled legal representation to protect your rights and advocate for fair compensation.
• Enforcement of Contracts: We help enforce contractual agreements, ensuring that contractors fulfill their obligations and deliver quality workmanship as promised.
• Negotiation Skills: With strong negotiation skills, we work to resolve disputes through mediation or settlement, minimizing time and costs associated with litigation.
• Understanding of Regulations: We possess in-depth knowledge of construction laws, construction disputes, and regulations, helping clients navigate complex legal frameworks to achieve favorable outcomes.
• Documentation and Evidence: We assist in gathering and preserving crucial documentation and evidence to support your case in legal proceedings.
• Client Advocacy: Above all, we serve as strong advocates for our clients, tirelessly fighting to protect their interests and ensure justice is served.

Contact The Doyle Law Offices for Litigation Against Unlicensed Contractors Today 

If you've been the victim of an unlicensed contractor in Wake County or surrounding communities, don't hesitate to contact Hank Doyle at The Doyle Law Offices, P.A. With 28 years of experience, Hank provides expert legal counsel to homeowners seeking recourse for construction-related losses. 

Schedule a consultation today by phone, Zoom, or in-person at our offices in Wake Forest and Cary. Protect your rights and your home with the help of our experienced team of NC contract law attorneys.

Get started by calling us at  (984) 235-1067 or filling out the contact form below.