Contractor License Verification Checklist Scorer
Score a contractor's license verification checklist across key compliance criteria to assess overall trustworthiness and hiring risk.
Your score will appear here.
Formula
Total Score = Sum of points awarded across 8 weighted checklist criteria (max 100 points)
| Criterion | Max Points |
|---|---|
| License Active / Not Expired | 20 |
| License Class Matches Scope | 15 |
| Verified via State Licensing Board | 15 |
| General Liability Insurance | 10 |
| Workers' Compensation / Exemption | 10 |
| Contractor Bond Verified | 10 |
| No Open Complaints / Disciplinary Actions | 10 |
| Business Name & Owner ID Match | 10 |
| Total | 100 |
Score Bands:
- 90–100: Excellent – Low Risk
- 75–89: Good – Minor Gaps
- 55–74: Fair – Moderate Risk
- 35–54: Poor – High Risk
- 0–34: Unacceptable – Do Not Hire
Assumptions & References
- License status should always be verified directly on the issuing state's contractor licensing board website (e.g., CSLB for California, DBPR for Florida).
- A Certificate of Insurance (COI) must name the hiring party as an additional insured and show current policy dates.
- Workers' compensation exemptions are valid only when the contractor has no employees; verify the exemption certificate is current.
- Bond verification should include the bond number, surety company name, and expiration date.
- Complaint history can be checked via state licensing boards, BBB, and court record searches.
- License class matching is critical — a general contractor license does not automatically authorize specialty work (e.g., electrical, plumbing, HVAC) in most states.
- References: NASCLA Contractor Guide; U.S. Small Business Administration contractor hiring guidelines; state-specific contractor licensing statutes.
- This tool provides a risk-scoring framework only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a licensed attorney for contract and compliance matters.