Contractors and Repair Shops in Rhode Island
Licensing, written contracts, deposits and estimates for home improvement contractors and auto repair shops in Rhode Island.
Short answer: A person may not undertake, offer or bid on work as a contractor on a structure without a current certificate of registration from the Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board, and cities, towns and the state may not issue building permits to unregistered contractors. R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 5-65-3, 5-65-27
| Home improvement contractors | A person may not undertake, offer or bid on work as a contractor on a structure without a current certificate of registration from the Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board, and cities, towns and the state may not issue building permits to unregistered contractors. Contracts from in-home solicitations of elderly people must include a notice that the person may cancel within three business days (except in an emergency); if the contract does not comply and the consumer cancels, the contractor must return any deposit within 20 days or face double damages. |
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Where to get help in Rhode Island
More Rhode Island consumer protection
- The Lemon Law in Rhode Island
- Your Right to Cancel a Purchase in Rhode Island
- Filing a Consumer Complaint in Rhode Island
- All Rhode Island consumer protection rules
FAQ
What are the rules for home improvement contractors in Rhode Island?
A person may not undertake, offer or bid on work as a contractor on a structure without a current certificate of registration from the Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board, and cities, towns and the state may not issue building permits to unregistered contractors. Contracts from in-home solicitations of elderly people must include a notice that the person may cancel within three business days (except in an emergency); if the contract does not comply and the consumer cancels, the contractor must return any deposit within 20 days or face double damages.
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.