Before hiring any contractor in Northwest Arkansas, verifying their license is essential. Arkansas requires contractors to be licensed for most home improvement work, and checking credentials is easier than you might think.

Why Licensing Matters

A valid contractor license in Arkansas means the individual has:

Passed required examinations demonstrating competency

Met bonding and insurance requirements

Agreed to follow state regulations and building codes

Submitted to background checks

Working with an unlicensed contractor puts you at risk for poor workmanship, code violations, and limited legal recourse if problems arise.

How to Check a License

The Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board maintains a public database of all licensed contractors. Here's how to verify credentials:

1. Visit the ACLB Website

Go to arkansas.gov/contractors and navigate to the license verification section. The database is free to search and updated regularly.

2. Search by Name or License Number

Enter the contractor's business name or license number. If they've provided a license number, use that for the most accurate results.

3. Verify Active Status

Check that the license status shows "Active" or "Current." Expired or suspended licenses mean the contractor shouldn't be working.

4. Match the License Type

Arkansas issues different license classifications (residential, commercial, specialty trades). Ensure the contractor's license covers the type of work you need.

5. Check Expiration Date

Licenses must be renewed annually. A license expiring soon should be renewed before work begins.

What to Look For

When reviewing a contractor's license information, pay attention to:

**License Classification**: Does it match your project scope?

**Business Name**: Does it match their marketing materials and proposals?

**Years Licensed**: How long have they held a valid license?

**Disciplinary Actions**: The database shows any past violations or complaints

Red Flags

Be cautious if a contractor:

Refuses to provide their license number

Claims they "don't need a license" for your project

Provides a license number that doesn't verify

Has a recently issued license but claims decades of experience

Has multiple disciplinary actions on record

Beyond the License

While a valid license is crucial, also verify:

General liability insurance (request a certificate)

Workers' compensation coverage (if they have employees)

References from recent projects

Better Business Bureau rating

Google reviews from real customers

For Benton County Projects

In Northwest Arkansas, some municipalities have additional permitting requirements beyond state licensing. Bentonville, Rogers, Centerton, and Bella Vista may require:

Building permits for structural work

Electrical permits for wiring changes

Plumbing permits for fixture installations

Final inspections before work is considered complete

Your contractor should handle permit applications, but you're ultimately responsible as the property owner.

Questions to Ask

When interviewing contractors, ask:

"Can I have your Arkansas contractor license number?"

"Are you insured, and can you provide a certificate?"

"Who will be doing the work—licensed employees or subcontractors?"

"What permits will this project require?"

"Can you provide references from similar projects?"

A professional contractor will answer these questions confidently and provide documentation without hesitation.

If You Hire an Unlicensed Contractor

If work is performed by someone who should have been licensed, you may have limited options if:

Work doesn't meet code requirements

The project is left incomplete

Damage occurs to your property

You need warranty service

The ACLB cannot help with complaints against unlicensed individuals, and insurance claims may be denied.

Bottom Line

Taking 10 minutes to verify a contractor's license can save you thousands in repairs and legal fees. Arkansas makes this information publicly available for a reason—use it before signing any contract or making a deposit.

For help connecting with licensed contractors in Bentonville, Rogers, Centerton, or Bella Vista, submit a request and we'll match you with verified professionals in our network.

How to Verify a Contractor's License in Arkansas