Hiring a contractor in Arizona: check, red flags, complaints

Red flags when hiring

• Asks for more than $1,000 of work, or work needing a permit, without an ROC license. (source: Arizona ROC: License Classifications (opens in a new tab))
• Advertises without a license and without the words "not a licensed contractor". (source: A.R.S. 32-1121 (opens in a new tab))
• Splits a big job into small pieces to stay under $1,000. (source: A.R.S. 32-1121 (opens in a new tab))
• Has a commercial-only license but bids on your home. (source: Arizona ROC: License Classifications (opens in a new tab))

Full checklist: how to check a contractor before you hire

Penalties

• Contracting without a license is a class 1 misdemeanor: a fine of at least $1,000 for a first offense and at least $2,000 for later offenses. (source: A.R.S. 32-1164 (opens in a new tab))

How to complain

• File with the ROC within 2 years: from close of escrow or occupancy for new homes, or from the last work for remodels. (source: Arizona ROC: File a Complaint (opens in a new tab))
• Complain online through the ROC portal, which covers licensed and unlicensed contractors. Phone (602) 542-1525. (source: Arizona ROC: File a Complaint (opens in a new tab))

Residential Recovery Fund

• Pays up to $30,000 per residence and $200,000 per license. (source: Arizona ROC: Residential Contractors' Recovery Fund (opens in a new tab))
• You must make a bond claim first, and the contractor's license must have been suspended or revoked after your complaint. (source: Arizona ROC: Residential Contractors' Recovery Fund (opens in a new tab))
• Bond details are shown on the ROC Contractor Search page. (source: Arizona ROC: Residential Contractors' Recovery Fund (opens in a new tab))