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What's Included
Can Toughjobs help me build a compliant contractor website?
Yes. Toughjobs helps contractors build websites, SEO pages, and marketing materials that present licensing, service area, and guarantees accurately. Toughjobs is not a law firm and does not determine licensing requirements for you.
Requirements & Preparation
What insurance should a home service contractor carry?
Most contractors carry general liability insurance, workers' compensation if they have employees, commercial auto coverage, and sometimes a license or contractor bond depending on the trade and jurisdiction.
Licensing & Compliance
Do I need more than an LLC to run a contractor business in Illinois?
Usually yes. An LLC registers your business entity with the state, but most trades also need state or local licensing, city registration, permits, and insurance before performing or advertising work.
Do Iowa contractors need to register with the state?
Yes. Iowa requires individuals and businesses earning $2,000 or more per year from construction work to register as a Construction Contractor with the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL).
Do plumbers need a license in Illinois and Iowa?
Yes in both states. Illinois licenses plumbers statewide through the Illinois Department of Public Health. Iowa licenses plumbing and mechanical contractors through the Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board.
Does Illinois have a general contractor license?
No. Illinois does not issue a statewide general contractor license. General contracting, electrical, and HVAC work are regulated at the city or county level, such as Chicago's Department of Buildings.
Do landscapers need a license to apply pesticides?
Typically yes. Applying pesticides or herbicides for hire generally requires a commercial pesticide applicator license through the state department of agriculture in both Illinois and Iowa.
Do roofers need a license in Illinois?
Yes. Illinois requires a statewide roofing contractor license through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation under the Roofing Industry Licensing Act.
Do electricians need a state license in Iowa?
Yes. Iowa licenses electrical contractors and electricians through the Iowa Electrical Examining Board, separate from general construction contractor registration.
Do city permits matter if I already have an LLC?
Yes. An LLC is a business entity registration and does not replace city or county permits, inspections, or local contractor registration required for specific projects.
Can I advertise contractor services before getting licensed?
You should hold any required license or registration before advertising services that legally require one. Advertising services you're not licensed to perform can create legal and reputational risk.
Should I put my license number on my website?
If you hold a license, an accurate license number can build trust. Never display a license number you don't currently hold, or one that doesn't cover the specific work being advertised.