In Montana, construction contractors with employees have to register with the state. The registration is considered a license.
A contractor without employees does not have to be registered. However, they can opt for registration.
Most states require contractors to have a general contractors license and or have taken a course on lead paint abatement and mold before registering their business.
Where to get a painting license
If you are in Montana, you will get your license from the Montana Department of Labor & Industry.
The Montana Contractor Registration Unit, which is part of the department, registers contractors.
You must meet the following requirements to become a registered contractor in Montana:
- Register your business.
- Acquire general business liability insurance.
- Proof of workers’ compensation insurance.
- Federal ID number.
- Download and complete the application form.
- Pay the licensing fee.
- Proof of experience for the trade you want to be licensed.
What can happen if you hire an unlicensed painter
Depending on the city you work in, there will be different penalties for working as an unlicensed painter or contractor.
Unlicensed contractors will face fines, jail time, or prevent the contractor from working in their chosen trade for a period.
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 Montana.
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 Montana
A lead-based paint disclosure is a federal and Montana 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.
