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CONTRACTOR REGISTRATION
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

All contractors doing work authorized by a building permit must first register with the Village. In order to register, each contractor fills out an application. The form is available here and through our office in the Kaptur Center. By their signature on the form, the contractor indicates they are aware of and will comply with the Village Codes and Permit requirements. This is not proof of their knowledge or skill but it does show their willingness to do the job right. Along with the application, the contractor attaches a bond and insurance. The License and Permit Bond for $10,000 is issued by a bonding company to obligate the contractor to “faithfully perform the duties and in all things comply with the laws and ordinances pertaining to the permit.” In practice, the bonding company can be a problem solver for the property owner and the Village when there is a claim against the contractor. The Certificate of Insurance covers the contractor and the Village for claims against auto, workman’s compensation, and comprehensive general liability for $500,000 each. It is not uncommon that the property owners get their own insurance when hiring contractors.

Also, the Village requires a copy of the current valid contractor’s license or certification for all electricians, plumbers, and roofers issued by the State of Illinois or City of Chicago. The State does investigate claims against contractors and will invalidate licenses and certifications and prosecute related criminal behavior. See Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation http://www.idfpr.com/DPR/ or 312-814-6910.

The Building Department keeps a list of all contractors registered in the Village and makes this information available upon request. Many contractors pre-register as a way to attract clients. Hiring a qualified and registered contractor can help you get your project completed without violations and inspection failures. Let us know if you have any questions or concerns about contractor registration or building permit requirements. For more information, contact Steve, Jean, or Joe at 708-671-3730 or smanning@palospark.org.