In Nebraska, painters have to register in the city they work in.
Painters and other contractors working in cities with a population of less than 100,000 and those earning less than $5,000 a year are exempt from licensing or registration.
Only electrical contractors register with the state.
Contracting companies that can carry out painting tasks in Nebraska can apply for the following licenses:
- Class A: License holders can work on all types and sizes of structures.
- Class B: License holders can work on structures up to four stories.
- Class C: License holders can work on duplexes and residential homes.
- Class D: License holders can remodel residential homes.
- Class E: License holders install roofs, sidings, windows, and decks.
Where to get a painting license in Nebraska
Contractor registration is completed on the website of the Nebraska Department of Labor.
Here are the conditions you have to meet for successful contractor licensing in Nebraska:
- Provide identity information.
- Provide your business information including the type of business, federal ID, and social security number.
- Services performed by the business.
- Provide employee information.
- Proof of general business liability insurance.
- Have workers’ compensation insurance.
- List of officers and sub-contractors.
- Pay the required application fee of $40.
Depending on the county you are registering, you may also require to:
- Pass a trade exam.
- Provide evidence of 2-5 years of experience.
What can happen if you hire an unlicensed painter in Nebraska
Unlicensed painters in Nebraska pay a $500 fine. However, they can contest the charge and will be provided with 60 days to get licensed.
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 Nebraska.
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 Nebraska 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 Nebraska
A lead-based paint disclosure is a federal and Nebraska 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.
