Local general contractor licenses in Illinois
Since Illinois does not issue state-specific license requirements, checking local regulations is a top priority.
Chicago
According to the Economic Research Institute, Chicago is the largest market for general contractors in Illinois and the country’s highest-paying city for general contractors, paying more than $133,000 per year.
You’ll need to take several steps in getting your general contractor license in Chicago, including completing an application, purchasing general contractor business insurance, and paying a fee.
Chicago also requires licenses for specific trade workers, including mason contractors, plumbing contractors, wreckers, and electrical contractors.
You’ll need to provide documentation to the Chicago Department of Buildings with your application to determine if you are qualified for a license. The steps for the application include:
- Provide a description of the work and services you aim to perform.
- Specify the classification of license you are applying for.
- Clarify your business structure and provide a business license.
- Identify and verify by affidavit that the applicant or member of your business entity is financially stable.
- Submit your certificate of insurance with the City of Chicago as additionally insured and policy limits ranging from $1 million to $5 million, depending on the sizes of your projects.
- Sign and complete the application.
- Pay all licensing fees.
Contractor license renewals in Chicago
You must renew your license each year. Be sure to begin the process of renewing your contractor license 90 days before it expires. In Chicago, the process for general contractor license renewal includes these steps:
- Complete and sign the renewal form.
- Obtain an updated certificate of insurance.
- Provide a signed copy of the Chicago general contractor license affidavit.
- Provide the business structure documents.
- Write a check for the annual registration fee.
- Mail the package.
Chicago general contractor license fees
The major difference between classes is the amount of insurance required for each classification. There are five license classifications in Chicago. Depending on the cost of the projects you are working on, there are different fees and insurance minimums for each classification.
The classes and fees are:
- Class A General Contractor: A $2,000 fee for projects with unlimited value, and a minimum insurance of $5 million per occurrence (primary or umbrella) is required.
- Class B General Contractor: A $1,000 fee for projects up to $10 million; the requirement is $3 million per occurrence (primary or umbrella).
- Class C General Contractor: A $750 fee for projects up to $5 million; insurance requirements are $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate.
- Class D General Contractor: A $500 fee for projects up to $2 million; insurance requirements are $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate.
- Class E General Contractor: A $300 fee for projects up to $500,000; insurance requirements are $1 million per occurrence.
Aurora
If you’re a general contractor looking to set up shop in Aurora, here’s what you need to know. You’ll need to fill out and submit a Contractor Registration Application to get your license.
If you’re planning to do electrical or mechanical work, the city recognizes certifications from the International Code Council (ICC). This includes categories like Standard Master Electrician and Master Mechanical Certification.
Don’t forget about renewals: Aurora has specific dates for renewing contractor licenses.
As for insurance, you’ll need to provide a certificate of insurance for general liability insurance. This should cover at least $1,000,000 general aggregate with $500,000 per occurrence. You’ll also need to have workers’ comp insurance, as required by Illinois state laws. Aurora contractors must also have a $5,000 surety bond.
Joliet
In Joliet, general contractors must register with the Building & Inspectional Services Division and prove they are insured, licensed and bonded for their respective trades.
Contractors installing or maintaining signage need a Sign Erector’s License.
HVAC contractors must pass a city-administered HVAC exam, even if they hold a state-recognized license.
Additionally, a letter of intent is required for each electrical, plumbing and HVAC subcontractor on projects, as part of the registration process.
As for insurance, the contractors need to include a certificate of insurance with general liability coverage. This requirement applies to plumbing, HVAC, electrical and roofing contractors.
