Home improvement contractors could become extinct in Louisiana

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Under a proposed law in Louisiana, homeowners would have to hire a licensed general contractor for any home improvement work valued over $10,000. Some worry the measure will destroy the market for trim carpenters, fence builders and other handymen who can perform jobs up to $75,000 under current law. Currently, the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSBLC) regulates two different types of residential construction professionals, aside from mold remediation experts: the licensed general residential contractor, which is required for jobs priced above $75,000; and the certified home improvement contractor, who can perform work between $7,500 and $75,000. Both must go through an application process and hold worker’s compensation and general liability insurance. Only a general contractor must pass a test and demonstrate some proficiency to become licensed. Jobs below $7,500, materials and labor combined, don’t require any kind of license and are largely unregulated. State law requires general liability insurance for any business doing such work regardless of the cost, but the contractors’ board only requires proof of coverage from licensed home improvement and general contractors.

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