Updated April 2026
Massachusetts Contractor Licensing — Quick Facts
- State License Required?
- Yes
- Licensing Board
- Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (HIC)
- Minimum Project Threshold
- All home improvement on existing 1–4 unit residences (HIC); larger structural work (CSL)
Two separate systems: Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration and Construction Supervisor License (CSL). Three supervisor license types. HIC registration is simpler. Insurance required but bond
State-Specific Details
Additional licensing bodies: Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (HIC); Office of Public Safety and Inspections (CSL)
Two separate systems: Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration and Construction Supervisor License (CSL). Three supervisor license types. HIC registration is simpler. Insurance required but bond is not.
Massachusetts requires contractors to hold a state license for projects exceeding All home improvement on existing 1–4 unit residences (HIC); larger structural work (CSL) in labor and materials. The Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (HIC) oversees licensing, complaints, and disciplinary actions.
Step 1: Get the Contractor's License Number
Any legitimate contractor in Massachusetts should readily provide their license number. It should appear on their business card, vehicle, website, and advertising. If a contractor refuses to share their license number, don't hire them.
Step 2: Verify the License
Visit the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (HIC) website to look up the contractor's license. We're working on adding Massachusetts license data to our search tool — check our Massachusetts page for updates.
When checking the license, verify:
- Status is "Active" — not expired, suspended, or revoked
- Name matches — the business name on the license should match who you're hiring
- Classifications cover your project — a plumbing license doesn't cover electrical work
- License won't expire during your project
Step 3: Check Bond and Insurance
While Massachusetts does not require a surety bond for all contractors, you should still verify that your contractor carries general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance (if they have employees). Ask for certificates of insurance before signing any contract.
Step 4: Check Complaint History
The Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (HIC) tracks complaints filed against licensed contractors. Before hiring, check if the contractor has any past disciplinary actions, complaints, or violations. Visit the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (HIC) website to check complaint history.
What Happens if You Hire an Unlicensed Contractor?
Hiring an unlicensed contractor in Massachusetts puts you at risk:
- Your homeowner's insurance may not cover work done by unlicensed contractors
- You have limited legal recourse if the work is defective
- No surety bond to file claims against
- Unpermitted work can cause problems when selling your home
How to Report an Unlicensed Contractor in Massachusetts
If you suspect a contractor is working without a license in Massachusetts, report them to the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (HIC). Unlicensed contracting is typically a misdemeanor and carries fines and potential jail time.
Other States
Looking up a contractor in a different state? Visit our state-by-state contractor license lookup page to find the right verification tool for your state.