Contractors and Repair Shops in Georgia
Licensing, written contracts, deposits and estimates for home improvement contractors and auto repair shops in Georgia.
Short answer: Residential and general contractors are licensed by the State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors under the Secretary of State, but certain specialty trades such as roofers, painters, drywall contractors and handymen are exempt from state licensing. Georgia Attorney General, Home Building and Home Repairs/Improvements (O.C.G.A. §§ 43-41-1 to 43-41-17)
| Home improvement contractors | Residential and general contractors are licensed by the State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors under the Secretary of State, but certain specialty trades such as roofers, painters, drywall contractors and handymen are exempt from state licensing. Plumbers, electricians and HVAC contractors are licensed by the Construction Industry Licensing Board, and most contractors also need county or city licenses. The Attorney General recommends written estimates, a written contract with start and completion dates, and paying in stages. Georgia law also sets a notice process before suing a builder over construction defects (O.C.G.A. §§ 8-2-35 to 8-2-43). |
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Where to get help in Georgia
More Georgia consumer protection
- The Lemon Law in Georgia
- Your Right to Cancel a Purchase in Georgia
- Filing a Consumer Complaint in Georgia
- All Georgia consumer protection rules
FAQ
What are the rules for home improvement contractors in Georgia?
Residential and general contractors are licensed by the State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors under the Secretary of State, but certain specialty trades such as roofers, painters, drywall contractors and handymen are exempt from state licensing. Plumbers, electricians and HVAC contractors are licensed by the Construction Industry Licensing Board, and most contractors also need county or city licenses. The Attorney General recommends written estimates, a written contract with start and completion dates, and paying in stages.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.