Missouri does not offer a statewide license for painters.
As a painter, you must meet the license requirements of the city or town in which you work.
Licensed painters and contractors in Missouri can earn more and work on high-value projects. Licenses enhance the credibility of the contractor.
These are the classes of insurance that a painter or contractor in Missouri can apply for:
- Class A License. It allows contractors to construct, remodel, repair, and demolish structures.
- Class B License. It allows contractors to work on structures less than three stories.
- Class C License. Contractors with this license can work on single-family townhouses or duplex buildings.
- Class D License. Plumbers, electricians, and mechanical contractors hold this license.
- Class E License. It licenses sub-contractors.
Where to get a painting license in Missouri
Depending on where you work in Missouri, apply for your license from the City Planning and Development office.
Here are the Missouri contractor licensing requirements:
- You must be 21 years and above.
- Have a valid high school diploma.
- Proof of experience in the trade for the license you are applying for.
- Pass your exam.
- Register your business with the Missouri Secretary of State.
- Proof of general insurance and worker’s compensation insurance.
- Pay application and license fees.
What can happen if you hire an unlicensed painter in Missouri
Unlicensed painters in Minnesota are guilty of a misdemeanor. They are liable to daily fines for each day without a license. You can also get a one-year jail sentence.
Here are some negative consequences of hiring an unlicensed contractor.
- They may not deliver as agreed. Licensed contractors risk losing their license if reported for unfinished jobs or overcharging. Always hire only licensed contractors for your painting jobs.
- Shoddy work. Licensed contractors have passed practical and written examinations to show their experience and competence.
- You will have to pay for any damage or accident during the job since unlicensed contractors do not have insurance. It will cost you more if an unlicensed contractor causes damage to your property.
- You will have to pay for any medical bills for injuries sustained by the contractor.
- It may be hard to get your money back from an unlicensed out-of-state painter.
- It will affect the value of your property.
- It may void your home insurance.
Can I paint my own house without a license?
Yes. You do not need a license to paint your own home in Minnesota.
In many states, homeowners can paint both the exterior and interior of their homes without a license or permit.
Painting your home is an easy task. It is affordable since all you need is the paint and paintbrushes.
Why hiring a professional painter is recommended
If you do not have the time or skills to paint, you can hire a contractor.
One of the greatest benefits of hiring a professional painter is that you can expect the paint job to last at least ten years before you need to repaint your home. Make sure to use high-quality paint for the best results.
If you choose to hire a contractor, ensure that you hire a Minnesota registered painter. Seek referrals to hire a good painter.
Also, get at least three quotes before you hire. It helps you to find a painter who will work with your budget.
When you hire a contractor, the cost of painting your home is higher than if you DIY. Different painters charge different prices, hence the need to have three quotes to compare.
Lead paint disclosure Missouri
A lead-based paint disclosure is a federal and Missouri legal requirement when selling or renting property built before 1978.
Before selling a house, sellers must inform their prospective clients of lead-based paint. Additionally, sales contracts must include the lead paint disclosure.
Landlords must also include the disclosure in the rent leases.
Lead is harmful to human beings. It gets into the body through breathing in or swallowing lead dust from chipped paint. It causes brain damage and nervous disorders in children under six years.
Pregnant women and unborn children are at high risk of infections caused by exposure to lead.
