When you are looking to hire a contractor in New South Wales (NSW), it is important to ensure that they have a valid contractor license. This ensures that they have met the necessary qualifications and are legally allowed to carry out the work they are contracted to do.

However, checking a contractor`s license can be a daunting task for those who are not familiar with the process. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to check a contractor`s license in NSW.

Step 1: Know the types of licenses

In NSW, there are two types of contractor licenses: a builder license and a trade license. A builder license is required for those who carry out building work that exceeds the value of $5,000. This includes residential and commercial building work. A trade license is required for those who carry out specific trade work, such as plumbing, electrical, and air conditioning.

Step 2: Check the license number

Every licensed contractor in NSW is issued a unique license number. You can check this number on the NSW Fair Trading website. Simply enter the license number and the system will provide you with the contractor`s name, contact details, and license status.

Step 3: Check the license status

It is important to check whether the contractor`s license is current and valid. You can do this by checking the license status on the NSW Fair Trading website. If the license status is “current”, it means that the contractor`s license is currently valid.

Step 4: Check for any disciplinary actions

If you want to ensure that the contractor you want to hire has a good track record, you can check for any disciplinary actions that may have been taken against them. You can do this by checking the disciplinary register on the NSW Fair Trading website.

Step 5: Check for insurance

It is important to ensure that the contractor you are hiring has adequate insurance coverage. This includes public liability insurance and workers` compensation insurance. You can check the insurance status of the contractor by contacting their insurance company.

In conclusion, checking a contractor`s license in NSW is an important step to ensure that you are hiring a qualified and licensed professional. It may seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it can be a simple process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you are hiring a contractor who is licensed, insured, and qualified to carry out the work you require.