After searching for glass tile mortars locally I decided I want a contractors license, or at least whatever allows me to buy materials only available to contractors.
I went to a tile place before work today and the cashier asked me if I was a contractor. I said no. This rendered me ineligible to receive her mortar-y goodness. Is there any way around this? I don't want to become licensed, and have to pay insurance just to work on my own house, but some discounts and the ability to buy the building products I want would be nice. Maybe being an engineer would help, but I doubt it helps to get me past the "Applicants for a contractor's license must provide proof of at least two years of experience in home improvement work, construction and/or related education" rule. Any ideas?
Also, to my family and friends, it is ok to post replies to this blog. In fact, I prefer if your comments are here (as opposed to email) so then I can keep track of all your advice. And yes Leigh, this means you too can comment instead of just blog-stalking. :)
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Wannabe Contractor
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4 comments:
You should just befriend a contractor who already has a license.
I have ordered tile without showing a contractors license. just tell 'em yes when they ask. Can't hurt to try and I've never been told no.
I need more friends with licences. I guess I'll have to tell some white lies...
you can say "yes" but then be prepared with the name of a company IF they ask who. best is to make nice with a contractor, or even call the person who worked on your house last, and ask if they can help you or if its OK to drop their name? (leigh... look away...) the bonus for them to agree is they can write it off as a tax deduction/higher materials expense. geoff let me drop his company's name (a big one in seattle who has no problem with assisting its employees) when ordering materials - i ordered tile and just said "the guy who's doing my project works for so-and-so" and then offered to pay right on the spot instead of having the company billed. there have also been times when they never asked who the company was. i have also never been asked specifically what kind of license or any specifics on that. seems like the supply houses have lists of the big name contractors and you just need to match someone on their list.
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