The 10 Best Magazine, AR General Contractors

A contractors license issued from the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board is required for any work with a total job cost $2000 and up for all residential or commercial work on new and existing buildings.

Arkansas maintains high standards for its licensed contractors, who must pass a written business and law exam, as well as prove at least 2 years of remodeling experience or 4 years of residential home construction experience.

Contractors in Arkansas are required to maintain workers' compensation insurance. Although the state licensing board does not require contractors to carry general liability insurance, it is always a good idea to find contractors that are covered by an active policy.

Arkansas does not require contractors to obtain a surety bond. Homeowners can file a complaint with the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board, as well as the The Consumer Protection Division of the Arkansas Attorney General.

Arkansas does not require licensed contractors to pass a criminal background check prior to obtaining a license. If this is a consideration, you can run your own search on the Arkansas Crime Information Center Website.

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 Arkansas, 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.