Unlike most U.S. states, Maine does not offer statewide licensing for general contractors. The only licenses available are for plumbing, electric, and asbestos abatement contractors.
All contractors in the state must follow Maine laws concerning written contracts. They must also adhere to any city-specific regulations in their area.
Requirements for Maine Contracts
The Maine Home Construction Contracts Act (HCC Act) states that home construction projects worth over $3,000 require a written contract. This must be signed by both the contractor and the client. Home construction includes any building, fixing, or remodeling of a residence, including non-structural, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.
A client and contractor can agree to exempt themselves from this requirement if the contractor has given the client all of their rights as per the HCC Act.
Otherwise, the contract must include the following:
- A provision prohibiting payment up front of more than 1/3 of the total contract price
Any changes to the contract price, work, or materials must also be stated as a written change order signed by both parties.
You can find an overall sample contract on page 6 of this form.
Maine Contractor Guidelines
While your compliance isn’t monitored, Maine does provide guidelines for contractors in the state. As a contractor, you should register your business with the state, provide general liability insurance, provide Worker’s Comp, check local codes, and write up a contract for each project.
- Register Your Business with the State
If you plan to work as a sole proprietor or general partnership, you won’t have to register with the state; however, your municipality might require you to get a business permit or license to legally work in that area.
Limited partnerships, LLCs, or other corporations will need to register with the Bureau of Corporations at the Office of the Secretary of State.
- Get General Liability Insurance
General liability insurance will protect a contractor against claims of negligence. This could cover the contractor and their business in case of an error or also against any false claims.
There are additional forms of insurance you can buy depending on your line of contracting work, such as roofers’ insurance, builders’ risk insurance, and more.
- Provide Worker’s Comp
Worker’s Compensation coverage provides payments or medical care for workers who are injured or fall ill as a result of their job. If you have employees, you are legally required to provide Worker’s Comp.
- Check Municipal Codes and Regulations
Most Maine municipalities will require certain permits for contracting work. Always check with your local building division or board for the most up-to-date regulations.
- Write Up a Contract
Don’t forget to write up your HCC Act-abiding contract for every project and sign it alongside your client.
Contractor Licenses in Maine
If you are a plumbing, electric, or asbestos abatement contractor, you’ll need to get a state license to work in addition to the guidelines above. Most trades will require you to reach the master level or employ a master tradesman to perform contracting work in that field. These licenses are overseen by the Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation.
