New Jersey Contractor License Bond
What’s a New Jersey contractor license bond?
New Jersey is different from many other states in that construction contractors aren’t required to obtain a statewide license to work legally. However, other contractors may need the following bonds to obtain a license to operate in the state to ensure compliance with rules and regulations adopted by the State Board of Examiners.
- HVACR (heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration) contractors: $3,000 bond, expires 6/30 on even-numbered years
- Electrical contractors: $1,000 bond, expires 3/31
- Master plumbers: $3,000 bond
In addition to the statewide contractor license bond requirement, some cities and counties in New Jersey may also require contractors to become licensed and bonded.
- Medford
- Ventnor City
- Margate
- Jersey City
- Burlington
- Franklin
- Oakland
- Wyckoff
Get Your New Jersey Contractor License Bond:
How much does a New Jersey contractor license bond cost?
The cost of a New Jersey license bond may depend on the required bond amount and the applicant’s credit history. Many contractor license bonds can be issued instantly for $100. Depending on the specific type of bond you need, requirements may range from $1,000 to $15,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do New Jersey contractor license bonds work?
A New Jersey contractor license bond is a surety bond ensuring clients are compensated if a licensed contractor’s work doesn’t go as planned or they fail to abide by local codes and regulations.
The surety bond is an agreement between three parties:
- Obligee: The local licensing authority mandating the bond
- Principal: The contractor required to obtain and post the bond
- Surety: The surety company that issues a bond to the licensed contractor and covers claims when filed (the contractor must repay the claim amount to the surety over a specified time)
The obligee varies since local or state licensing authorities may set the bonding requirements. Contractors should check with their licensing authority to determine if a contractor license bond is required and who the obligee is.
How do I renew my contractor license bond in New Jersey?
Bond terms and renewal dates vary according to each municipality, but the process for renewal is generally the same. When the bond is nearing expiration, you should receive a renewal notice. Simply fill out your renewal application before the expiration date. This is also a great time to see if you are getting the lowest rate out there.
Can I get bonded with poor credit?
In many cases, you can get bonded even with a low credit score, though your premium rate may be higher. Reach out to ZipBonds for information on getting bonded with poor credit and strengthening your application.
Get Your Contractor License Bond in New Jersey
ZipBonds offers the fastest and most secure option for getting bonded. Our all-digital platform is intuitive and straightforward. Apply online, email support@zipbonds.com or call 888.435.4191 to speak with an agent directly.
About ZipBonds.com
Founders Ryan Swalve and Zach Mefferd formed the vision for ZipBonds.com when they realized how overly complicated it was to help clients place surety. The frustration of being unable to incorporate the technology they’d used in other insurance-focused projects left them thinking “there has to be a better way.”
Fast forward a couple of years, and that better way is the impetus of everything we do at ZipBonds. We constantly look for innovative ways to improve the bonding process for our clients and agents. Our team comprises individuals who understand all angles of surety – for companies, agencies, and individuals. Incorporating everyone’s point of view to improve the process while simultaneously integrating cutting-edge technology is what sets our business apart.