In Connecticut, home improvement projects over $1,000 require a contractor who has a Home Improvement Contractor Certificate or a New Home Construction Contractor's Certificate.

Michael Ballou currently holds license HTG.0307019-D1 (Heating, Piping & Cooling Limited Contractor), which was Inactive when we last checked.

The law requires that a written, signed and dated contract be prepared for every home improvement job. The contract holds both the homeowner and the contractor accountable for work and payments.

A contractor must show the building inspector proof of individual workers' compensation when applying for a Building permit.

The State maintains the 'Home Improvement Guaranty Fund,' which can provide up to $15,000 in compensation to homeowners in case their registered contractor leaves the job unfinished or provided faulty work.

The Department of Consumer Protection doesn't perform a comprehensive financial or criminal background check so consumers have more responsibility to ensure they are making the right hire.

The BuildZoom score is based on a number of factors including the contractor's license status, insurance status, verified work history, standing with local consumer interest groups, verified reviews from other BuildZoom users and self-reported feedback from the contractor.

When it comes to major construction work or even minor alterations to your home, hiring the wrong contractor could result in incomplete or defective work. You may even find yourself dealing with huge liability claims. BuildZoom does the homework for you and helps you hire the right contractor.

Before hiring a contractor in Connecticut,be sure to get at least 3 detailed bids. Quality contractors will take the time to explain their budget proposal, and help guide you through the estimate process. Be wary of an abnormally low bid, they are not worth the risk. These underpriced projects often do not end well for the homeowner, choose a contractor you trust and can clearly communicate with. BuildZoom has made the bid collection process extremely simple (and free). Just click here to get started.