General Contractor Laws Hawaii
As a general contractor in Hawaii, you must be aware of the numerous laws and regulations that govern your profession. In this article, we will provide an overview of some key general contractor laws in Hawaii that every contractor should know.
Licensing Requirements
In Hawaii, all general contractors are required to have a valid license to operate legally. To obtain a license, you must complete an application, provide proof of insurance, and pass a written exam. Once you have a license, you will need to renew it every two years and complete continuing education courses.
Hawaii Contractor`s Recovery Fund
Hawaii has a contractor`s recovery fund that provides reimbursement to homeowners who have suffered financial losses due to a contractor`s negligence or misconduct. To qualify for reimbursement, homeowners must file a claim with the recovery fund and provide evidence of their financial losses. The recovery fund is financed by a portion of the fees collected from Hawaii contractors.
Contractor`s Liability Insurance
All general contractors in Hawaii must carry liability insurance to protect themselves and their customers against accidents and damages that could occur during the construction process. The minimum amount of liability insurance required in Hawaii is $500,000 per occurrence and $1,000,000 in aggregate.
Building Codes
Hawaii has strict building codes that must be followed by all general contractors. These codes cover everything from the type of materials used to the height and structure of the building. Failure to comply with building codes can result in fines, penalties, and legal action.
Contracts
All general contractors in Hawaii must have a written contract with their customers before beginning any work. The contract must include a detailed description of the work to be done, a timeline for completion, and the total cost. It must also include information about the contractor`s licensing and insurance.
Conclusion
As a general contractor in Hawaii, it is essential to be aware of the various laws and regulations that affect your profession. This includes licensing requirements, the contractor`s recovery fund, liability insurance, building codes, and contracts. By following these laws and regulations, you can protect yourself, your customers, and your business, and ensure that your construction projects are completed safely and legally.