This page provides helpful information for consumers. Please don't hesitate to e-mail the NMBA if you have questions or need more information.

Many building trades are required to hold a license with the MN Department of Labor & Industry. Residential Contractors & Remodelers are required to be licensed. There is a handyman exemption for those that make less than $15,000 in gross receipts (including material & labor) annually. Master Electricians, Journeyman Electricians, Registered Electricians, Master Plumbers, Power Limited Technicians are also required to be licensed under the MN Department of Labor & Industry. Please refer to their website to do a license look-up and for more information regarding licensing requirements:

Now is a GREAT time to build or remodel. Make sure that you hire a licensed building professional and a certified lead renovator firm when remodeling a pre 1978 home.

Click Triangle at center of image to start video.
Download flash player

Consumer Education Publications:
Citizen's Guide to Home Building and Remodeling is written and published by the Minnesota Attorney General's Office. Main Switchboard: 1-800-657-3787

Hiring a Residential Contractor:
What You Need to Know is written and published by the Minnesota Dept. of Commerce. Main Switchboard: 1-651-296-4026

Department of Commerce:
Search Consumer Info and Services for energy sources, license lookups, downloadable publications and tips, enforcement actions, plus much more to help you make educated choices and decisions.
http://www.commerce.state.mn.us/

EFFECTIVE DATES:
* January 1, 2007, all newly constructed dwellings for which building permits were issued on or after January 1, shall have an approved CO alarm.
* Effective August 1, 2008, all existing single-family homes shall have an approved CO alarm.
* Effective August 1, 2009, all other multifamily or apartment-dwelling units shall have an approved CO alarm.

GENERAL LOCATION REQUIREMENTS:
* Within 10 feet of each room lawfully used for sleeping.
* All CO alarms shall be certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory to conform to the latest Underwriters Laboratory (UL) Standards (also known as UL2034 Standards).

POWER:
* CO alarms must be either hardwired into the electrical wiring, directly
   plugged into an electrical outlet without a switch, or battery powered.

	Why Hire a Licensed Building Trade Professional?
	Hiring a Residential Building Contractor
	Annual Home Care Check List
	The Top reasons you shouldn't wait to Buy A New Home!
	Guide To Buying A Home
	Home Warranty Law
	Risks Associated With Unlicensed Contractors
	Warning Signs To Help Spot Unlicensed Contractors
	Questions To Ask Before Hiring A Contractor For Your Building Or Remodeling Project
	MN State Home Warranty Law (327A)

Back to the top