CONTACT INFORMATION:
Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Friday, 9:15 a.m. - 4 p.m. Please note that visitors may not be added to in-person queues past 3:45 p.m.
If the project you are planning is valued at $1,000 or more, the person doing the work must have a valid Virginia Contractor's License issued from the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). Licenses are also issued with classifications and specialties that identify the type of work that may be performed.
Tradesman and journeyman licenses are separate and cannot be combined with a contractor’s licenses (class A, B or C) to expand the scope or dollar limits of work allowed. To have new specialties added to an existing contractors license, or to obtain a contractors license, please consult with the Department of Professional & Occupational Regulations (DPOR) directly.
More information regarding contractor licenses is available from DPOR. Visit the Board for Contractors Regulations to see what Classifications are eligible to perform different types of work.
Although homeowners may obtain permits in their name, enforcement action against the contractor becomes more difficult if the permit is issued to the homeowner.
Possible Signs of a Scam or Unlicensed Contractor
Reluctant to obtain the permit
Says the permit should be issued to the homeowner
Solicits door-to-door
Offers a deal because using materials left from a previous job
Host Jim Person talks with Scott Hagerty, Code Enforcement Investigator for Post Occupancy and Unlicensed Contracting Complaints with Land Development Services (LDS).
How Do I Submit a Complaint About My Unlicensed Contractor?
If a person identifies him/herself as a licensed contractor and it is discovered the person is not licensed, it is a violation of Fairfax County Code. Complaints/violations may be reported in PLUS; or
Call LDS at 703-222-0801, TTY 711 or by email at LandDevelopmentServices@fairfaxcounty.gov to start the complaint process. Due to code limitations in the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, complaints regarding construction activity more than two years old cannot be accepted.
What Do I Do If My Contractor Failed to Complete A Job And I Want My Money Back?
Whether or not a contractor is licensed, you may wish to obtain private legal counsel to pursue the appropriate civil action.
For construction, maintenance or repair activity that does not require permits, call the Fairfax County Department of Cable and Consumer Services at 703-222-8435, TTY 711, to file a complaint.
If the contractor is licensed, call the Virginia Board of Contractors of the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation at 804-367-8500, TTY 711, to determine if you are eligible to receive compensation from the State Contractor Recovery Fund.
I Would Like to Become a Licensed Contractor. What Do I Do?
There are several steps you need to take to be a licensed contractor in Fairfax County. Please visit How to Become a Contractor in Fairfax County for step-by-step instructions.
