What a contractor license bond is
Some states, and many cities and counties, make contractors post a bond to get or renew a license. It protects customers, workers and the public if the contractor breaks the licensing laws, for example by abandoning a job or not paying workers. The contractor repays the surety for any claim it pays.
In Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has no statewide contractor license bond. Home improvement contractors register with the Office of Attorney General under the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act, which requires insurance, not a bond.
You need this bond if you're
- A contractor applying for a new license
- A contractor renewing or reactivating a license
- A business changing its entity type or qualifier
- A contractor starting work in a city or county that requires its own bond
What the surety looks at
Basic business and owner details. Most license bonds need a credit check but no financial statements.