Am I Overpaying for Renting or Leasing a Contracting License?
In most states, renting or leasing a license is illegal. Even where it isn't, a qualifier can bring far more to your business than a license alone. If you're renting or leasing a license, explore new relationships as soon as possible.
Is renting or leasing a contractor's license legal?
In most states, no (learn more about your state here). States expect the person whose license qualifies a business to be genuinely involved in its work. See our guide on how the qualifying agent relationship actually works.
What's the risk if you are renting or leasing one?
Renting or leasing a license can put your business at risk, and you could face criminal charges. And even where it's legal, you're paying for a relationship you aren't getting full value from.
How is that different from a real qualifying agent?
A real qualifying agent is an employee who's actively involved in the work the business does, not someone who just lends a license.
Why is a real relationship worth more?
An involved qualifier brings real experience and expertise to your business, and puts it to work for you. A rented license brings a name on paper and nothing more, however much you pay for it.
How do you find a real qualifier?
Look for a qualifier who's willing to be genuinely involved in your business. Our guide on how to find a qualifying agent for your business walks through where to start, and our guide on how much it costs to hire one covers what a real relationship looks like on the pay side.
Is this legal advice?
No. This is general information, not a substitute for talking to an attorney about your situation.
How do you find a qualifying agent?
findQualifier.com is a public, searchable board of licensed professionals advertising their availability to work as a qualifier, by state and trade. Browse available qualifiers or post a listing so qualifiers can find you instead.