why hire a licensed and insured irrigation contractor?

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Hiring a licensed, bonded and insured irrigation contractor in North Carolina is crucial for several reasons, primarily centered on consumer protection and safeguarding your investment. Here's why it's so important:

Licensing ensures that the contractor has met specific standards, including experience requirements (typically 3 years in irrigation construction or contracting or its educational equivalent), passed a state-administered exam, and demonstrated knowledge of irrigation systems and regulations. Accoridng to the North Carolina Irrigation Contractors Licensing Board, this helps guarantee that they possess the necessary skills and ethical standards to provide quality services and adhere to high industry standards.

Licensed contractors are expected to adhere to all relevant local and state building codes, promoting safe and compliant installations. This minimizes the risk of issues down the line, potentially saving you from costly repairs or the hassle of disclosing non-compliant work if you sell your property.

• Surety Bond: North Carolina requires licensed irrigation contractors to maintain a $10,000 surety bond. This acts as a financial guarantee that the contractor will fulfill their obligations, explains Surety Bonds, LLC. In case of unethical practices or failure to complete the project as agreed, you can file a claim against the bond to recover damages.

• Insurance: While not explicitly required for licensing in North Carolina,  most reputable contractors carry liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. General liability insurance protects you if the contractor accidentally damages your property, while workers' compensation covers their employees if they're injured on your property, shielding you from potential lawsuits and financial responsibility.

Licensed contractors can obtain the necessary permits for irrigation installations and repairs, ensuring the work is properly inspected and meets all code requirements. Working with an unlicensed contractor who cannot obtain permits can create legal issues and potentially impact your home's resale value.

You have limited legal recourse options when you hire an unlicensed contractor. Working with a licensed and insured professional means they are held accountable for their work by the state licensing board. You have avenues to pursue claims if the work is unsatisfactory or if problems arise.

Knowing you've hired a qualified, insured, and bonded professional provides a sense of security and peace of mind. You can be more confident that the job will be done correctly, on time, and that you're protected from financial and legal liabilities. 

 In short, while an unlicensed contractor might offer a lower bid, the potential risks and lack of protection often far outweigh any initial cost savings. Always verify a contractor's license and insurance before hiring them for any irrigation work on your property in North Carolina.