North Carolina Contractor License Bonds

How much does a contractor bond cost in North Carolina?

The North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors requires general contractors to post a surety bond if they do not meet the minimum working capital or net worth requirements for their license classification.

Some cities, counties, and local authorities throughout the State of North Carolina require their own surety bonds. Below are the required bond amounts for popular contractor bonds:

• City of Greensboro Contractor License Bond (Electrical, HVAC, Mechanical, Plumbing): $2,000
• City of Greensboro Contractor License Bond (Demolition, Grading, House Moving): $5,000
• City of Winston Salem Contractor License Bond (Electrical, Heating, Plumbing): $2,500
• Irrigation Contractor License Bond: $10,000
• Landscape Contractor License Bond: $10,000

The surety company issuing the bond determines your premium rate, which is the percentage of the total bond amount you pay as the premium. During the application process, the surety company evaluates your personal credit, financial statements, industry experience, and licensing history.

EZ Surety can issue premiums for North Carolina contractor license bonds for as low as 1% of the total bond amount for applicants with standard credit. If your credit is below average, we can still offer a competitive rate for your contractors license bond.

Why are contractor bonds important in North Carolina?

Contractor license bonds hold licensed contractors accountable for the quality of their work and protect the public from damages they’ve incurred due to the contractor’s violation of licensing laws.

When the surety company issues the bond, they provide a financial guarantee to the state or local municipality that the contractor will comply with the regulations set forth in the contractor license. If the contractor violates these regulations, causing a loss to the consumer, the consumer can file a claim against the bond.

If the claim is valid, the surety company will cover the costs to repair the damage up to the amount of the bond. The contractor is then liable to reimburse the surety company for all damages paid.

How do I get my general contractor’s license in North Carolina?

To obtain your general contractor’s license you must meet the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors licensing requirements by completing the following steps:

• Complete the license application form
• Register your business with the North Carolina Secretary of State
• Register a State Tax Identification Number with the North Carolina Department of Revenue
• Pass a knowledge exam
• Pay all application and licensing fees
• Post any required surety bond