Search the contractor on the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry license lookup and confirm the business license is active (BC = residential building contractor, CR = remodeler, RR = roofer). Licensed contractors must show their license number on all advertising, including websites. Hiring a licensed contractor gives you access to the state Contractor Recovery Fund, which can pay up to $100,000 per owner after a court judgment.
1. Look up the license with the state
Use the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry's license and registration lookup. Search by business name or license number, choose the business license, and confirm the status is active. Residential building contractor licenses start with BC, remodeler licenses with CR, and roofer licenses with RR (MN DLI).
2. Find the license number on their advertising
Minnesota requires licensed residential contractors to put their license number "on all business cards, contracts, notices and statements relating to the filing of mechanics liens and all other advertising including websites" (MN DLI). No number on the truck, card or website is a red flag.
3. Know what the license protects
If a licensed contractor commits fraud, converts your money or fails to perform, homeowners with a final court judgment can apply to the state Contractor Recovery Fund. It can pay up to $100,000 per owner and $550,000 total per licensee, and the application is due within two years after the judgment becomes final (Minn. Stat. § 326B.89). Unlicensed contractors aren't covered.
4. Watch for the exemption
Some small contractors legally work without a state license: those with under $15,000 in gross annual receipts who hold a certificate of exemption, and specialty contractors who provide only one special skill (Minnesota Attorney General). Anyone contracting with you for work in more than one skill area, like a bathroom or kitchen remodel, generally needs a license.
5. Ask for proof of insurance
Ask for a current certificate of liability insurance, and make sure the name on it matches the business you're hiring.
Our license
cK Builders LLC holds Minnesota Residential Building Contractor License #BC809999. Look it up anytime on the DLI lookup.
Planning a project?
cK Builders gives free estimates across St. Paul and Dakota County. Licensed MN #BC809999.
How do I check if a contractor is licensed in Minnesota?
Search the contractor on the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry license lookup and confirm the business license is active. Residential building contractor licenses start with BC, remodelers with CR, and roofers with RR.
Do Minnesota contractors have to show their license number?
Yes. Licensed residential contractors must put their license number on business cards, contracts, lien notices and all advertising, including websites.
What is the Minnesota Contractor Recovery Fund?
A state fund that can compensate homeowners who win a final court judgment against a licensed residential contractor for fraud, conversion of funds or failure to perform. It pays up to $100,000 per owner and $550,000 per licensee.
