Check a Washington contractor's licence, bond and insurance
We list contractors the state shows as active, with a current bond on file and, for construction and plumbing contractors, current liability insurance. Amounts, sureties and expiry dates come straight from Washington L&I's public records.
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Where this data comes from
Every listing starts from public records — L&I contractor registrations (data.wa.gov m8qx-ubtq), L&I contractor bond filings (bzff-4fmt), L&I contractor insurance filings (ciwg-agsx), L&I contractor verification tool — not from who paid to be listed. A Licensed, bonded & insured badge means we matched the business to an active public record, dated. Read the methodology →
Common questions
Does a contractor need to be registered in Washington?
Yes. Construction contractors must register with the Department of Labor & Industries under chapter 18.27 RCW, and electrical and plumbing contractors hold their own licences. An unregistered contractor may not sue to collect payment (RCW 18.27.080), and acting as one without registration is a gross misdemeanor.
How much bond do Washington contractors carry?
By law general contractors file a $30,000 bond and specialty contractors $15,000, naming the State of Washington. Electrical contractors file $4,000. The bond is shared by all of the contractor's customers, suppliers and workers, so it may not cover your loss.
What liability insurance is required?
Construction contractors must show at least $50,000 for property damage, $100,000 for injury to one person and $200,000 for injury to more than one person (RCW 18.27.050). Many carry $1 million. If the policy lapses, the registration is suspended until new coverage is filed.
Why are some electricians shown without insurance?
Electrical contractors file a $4,000 bond and proof of workers' compensation with L&I, not a liability policy. Ask for a certificate of insurance and check that a permit is pulled.
What is the disclosure statement?
For residential projects of four or fewer units with a contract of $1,000 or more, RCW 18.27.114 requires the contractor to give you a written statement about registration, the bond, retainage and lien rights before work begins.
Does this site list every Washington contractor?
No. It lists the trades homeowners hire most, and for general contractors those registered in 2023 or earlier with a bond and insurance on file. Check L&I's verify tool for any contractor.