When hiring someone to build a deck, often forgotten, one of the first things to verify is whether they are licensed and insured. These details protect you from financial risk, ensure professionalism, and indicate that the builder operates legally. However, in Illinois, the rules are not as simple as many homeowners think.
There is no specific license for deck builders in Illinois. Instead, the state says that contractors must have a valid business license and follow the rules set by the city or town where they work. Before a contractor can get building permits, some cities and counties require them to register, get a bond, or show proof of insurance. If you know how this system works, you can pick a responsible, qualified company.
At Decked Out Builders, we believe transparency builds trust. We make all documentation available to our clients so they can feel confident that their home and investment are protected from the start.
Understanding Licensing in Illinois
There is no state-issued license for general contractors, remodelers, or deck builders in Illinois. The Illinois Department of Revenue or the Secretary of State must register contractors as legal businesses instead. This registration makes sure that the business pays its taxes and follows state business laws.
In addition, local governments often set their own rules for licensing and registering. For instance, contractors in cities like Crystal Lake, McHenry, and Lake Zurich must show proof of insurance, bonds, and, in some cases, building permit applications that have been approved in their business name.
Before hiring a contractor, make sure they are registered to do business in your area and can get the permits they need. A real builder won’t mind giving you proof.
Decked Out Builders is a legal business in Illinois and meets all the requirements for businesses in the Northwest Suburbs. We have all the permits in our company’s name and work directly with local inspectors during the building process.
Why Insurance Is Non-Negotiable
Homeowners’ most important protection is their insurance. If an accident happens while you’re working on your project or your property is damaged, this will protect you from being held responsible. All contractors who work on your property should have both general liability insurance and Workers’ compensation insurance.
General liability insurance protects against damage to property or injury that happens by accident on the job. If an employee or subcontractor gets hurt while working on your home, workers’ compensation insurance protects you from having to pay for it.
Don’t ever think that coverage is there. Get a Certificate of Insurance directly from your builder’s insurance company. The contractor’s business name, insurance company, and policy dates should be on this certificate.
Decked Out Builders has full coverage in both areas and will send you copies of their certificates if you ask for them. Our clients can move forward with their projects knowing that they are fully covered by insurance.
How to Verify a Contractor’s Legitimacy
There are easy ways to find out if a deck builder is following the law and acting responsibly.
First, get the company’s official name. You can find out if the business is registered in Illinois by using that name on the Secretary of State’s website. The listing should show that the business is still open and doing well.
Finally, ask for copies of their business registration and insurance certificate. A professional company will give these to you without a second thought. If a contractor avoids or puts off giving you paperwork, you should be worried.
What Happens When a Builder Is Not Licensed or Insured
Hiring a contractor who lacks business registration or insurance can lead to serious consequences. If property damage or an injury occurs, you may be held financially responsible. You might also face issues with city permits or home resale if the project was not completed under a legitimate business.
In addition, unregistered builders often cannot offer valid warranties. If structural issues arise later, you may have no recourse for repair.
Choosing a reputable, insured builder eliminates these risks. It guarantees that your investment is protected and that the project complies with both state and municipal laws.
Why Decked Out Builders Is a Safe Choice
Decked Out Builders is a legal business in Illinois that has both General Liability and Workers’ Compensation Insurance. We follow all local licensing rules and get permits in our name for every job.
We work directly with city inspectors to make sure that every deck meets the standards set by the Illinois Building Code. We never hire someone else to get permits or use temporary coverage. Every homeowner can rest easy knowing that their builder is real, insured, and responsible in their area.
Protect Your Home and Investment
Verifying a builder’s licensing and insurance is not a small detail. It is a critical step that protects you, your property, and your investment. Always ask for proof and never rely on verbal confirmation.
When you choose Decked Out Builders, you work with a company that values transparency and professionalism. We handle registration, insurance, and permits so you can focus on the excitement of your new deck.
Connect with our design and construction team today to discuss your project.
Contact Decked Out Builders | 815-900-5199
