New York Contractor License Bonds

Various cities, counties, and local authorities throughout the State of New York require contractors to post surety bonds. Below are the required bond amounts for popular municipal bonds:

• Buffalo Plumbing Contractor Bond: $2,000
• Hempstead Sewer & Drain Opening Bond: $5,000
• New York City (NYC) Home Improvement Contractor Bond: $20,000
• Putnam County Home Improvement Contractor Bond: $25,000
• Ramapo Sewer Contractor Bond: $10,000
• Westchester Plumbing Contractor 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 New York contractor license bonds for as low as $100 for applicants with standard credit. If your credit is below average, we can still offer a competitive rate for your contractors license bond.

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 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.

Because New York contractor licenses are issued at the municipal level rather than the state, you’ll need to check with your local municipality for any licensing requirements. Below are some common requirements for contractor licenses throughout the State of New York:

• Completed license application form
• Proof of general liability insurance
• Completed background check
• Proof of Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• Paid application and license fees
• Submission of the appropriate surety bond

Here are some resources you can use to learn more about the specific requirements in your jurisdiction.

• Buffalo Plumbing Contractor Bond: Buffalo Plumber License Application
• Hempstead Plumbing Bond: Hempstead, New York – Plumbing Permit
• Hempstead Sewer & Drain Opening Bond: Application Requirements & Checklist
• New York City Home Improvement Contractor’s Bond: Contractor License Application
• Putnam County Contractor Bond: Putnam County Contractor License Application
• Putnam County Home Improvement Contractor Bond: Home Improvement New Contractor Registration Packet
• Ramapo Sewer Contractor Bond: Ramapo Public Works Department
• Westchester Plumbing Contractor Bond: Plumbing & Electrical License Information