Check the name on the contract.

Who is responsible for the work?

Match the business name on the proposal, contract, license and insurance documents. Ask who supervises the site and which work is subcontracted. Check the applicable licensing board and classification for the actual scope; one credential does not cover every discipline.

Verify a builder license

Where can you verify qualifications?

Use Alabama HBLB’s license lookup where its jurisdiction applies, and ask the board to clarify uncertain results at 800-304-0853. Check engineers and surveyors through the Alabama Board for Engineers and Land Surveyors. Ask local offices about business licensing.

Verify a builder license · Alabama Board for Engineers and Land Surveyors · Alexander City Building Department

What should the insurer confirm?

Ask for current coverage issued for the contracting entity and the work proposed. Request confirmation from the insurance provider, including relevant exclusions and coverage for subcontracted operations. A logo or certificate thumbnail is not a scope review.

Who actually receives shoreline permission?

Alabama Power’s residential process grants permission to the permittee rather than the contractor. Agree who prepares the application and who follows up, while keeping the owner’s obligations clear.

Martin, Yates & Thurlow residential guidelines

What belongs in the signed agreement?

• Measured quantities, materials and design responsibility.
• Named permits, access permission and site protection.
• A realistic schedule with water-level contingencies.
• Written change approval and payment milestones.
• Cleanup, restoration, inspection records and warranty terms.

Hiring a contractor: dos and don’ts