How to Know If Your Contractor Is Licensed & Insured (And Why It Matters)

Blog | February 25, 2025

When hiring a contractor for construction, tree services, hardscaping, or landscaping, one of the most important factors to consider is whether they are properly licensed and insured. Many homeowners and business owners assume that all contractors meet these basic requirements, but unfortunately, that’s not always the case.

At Pro Select, we are fully licensed and insured, ensuring that every project we take on meets industry and safety standards. In this post, we’ll walk you through how to verify a contractor’s credentials and why it’s crucial for protecting your investment.

 

Why Licensing & Insurance Matter

A licensed and insured contractor isn’t just about professionalism—it’s about protecting yourself from financial and legal risks. Here’s why:

  • Legal Compliance – Licensed contractors have met the state, county, or city requirements for their industry, meaning they follow the correct procedures and regulations.
  • Quality & Expertise – Licensing usually requires experience, training, and sometimes even exams to prove competency. This means you’re getting a contractor who knows what they’re doing.
  • Liability Protection – If an accident occurs on your property, an insured contractor will have coverage to handle it. Without insurance, you could be held financially responsible.
  • Workers’ Compensation Coverage – If a worker gets injured while working on your project, workers’ comp insurance ensures that medical costs and lost wages are covered—again, protecting you from potential lawsuits.
  • Peace of Mind – You don’t have to worry about cutting corners or unfinished work because licensed contractors must adhere to industry standards.
How to Check If a Contractor Is Licensed

Not all contractors openly advertise their licensing information, so it’s up to you to ask and verify. Here’s how:

1. Ask for Their License Number

A legitimate contractor will have no problem providing their state or local license number. You can then check with your state’s licensing board or local government website to confirm their credentials.

2. Verify Through Official Databases

Most states have an online contractor license lookup tool where you can enter the company name or license number. This will show:

  • If the license is active or expired
  • Any complaints or violations
  • What type of work they are legally allowed to perform

3. Check Their Business Name

Some dishonest contractors may use a false or borrowed license number from another business. Ensure the name on the license matches the name of the contractor you’re hiring.

4. Ask About Certifications & Memberships

Aside from licensing, look for professional affiliations like:

  • ISA Certification (For tree care professionals)
  • Better Business Bureau (BBB) accreditation
  • Industry trade memberships (National Association of Landscape Professionals, etc.)

These affiliations reinforce their credibility and professionalism.

How to Verify a Contractor’s Insurance

Just like licensing, it’s essential to verify a contractor’s insurance before hiring them. Here’s how to do it:

1. Request Proof of Insurance

A reliable contractor should provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI). This document outlines their coverage details, including:

  • General liability insurance (Protects against property damage and injuries)
  • Workers’ compensation insurance (Covers employees if they get injured on the job)
  • Commercial vehicle insurance (If company trucks or equipment are used on your property)

2. Call the Insurance Provider

To confirm coverage, call the insurance company listed on the COI. You want to verify that:

  • The policy is active
  • Coverage limits are sufficient for your project
  • It covers both property damage & personal injury claims

3. Ensure Their Insurance Covers Subcontractors

Some contractors hire subcontractors to complete portions of the work. If so, ask whether those subcontractors are also insured, or if they are covered under the contractor’s policy.

Why Choose Pro Select?

At Pro Select, we believe in full transparency, professionalism, and safety. That’s why we are fully licensed and insured, giving you the confidence that your project is in expert hands.

  • Licensed & Certified – We adhere to all state, local, and ISA standards.
  • Fully Insured – Our insurance coverage protects both our team and our clients.
  • Highly Experienced – With a team of specialists in tree care, hardscaping, and construction, we bring knowledge and skill to every project.
  • Customer-First Approach – We prioritize safety, quality, and customer satisfaction in everything we do.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Take Risks with Unlicensed or Uninsured Contractors

Hiring an unlicensed or uninsured contractor might save you money upfront, but the risks far outweigh the savings. Protect your home, business, and investment by always verifying a contractor’s credentials before starting a project.

If you’re looking for a licensed and insured contractor for tree services, hardscaping, landscaping, or construction, Pro Select is here to help. Contact us today for a consultation.

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