Maine Contractor License Bond

1. Determine the Surety Bond You Need

In Maine, only electricians and plumbers require state-issued licenses, managed by the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation. For other trades, consult your local municipality for specific bond requirements. Reach out to surety bond providers to secure the necessary bonds and ensure compliance with both state and local regulations.

We recently helped a contractor in South Portland, Maine, obtain their contractor bond. Even though they were experienced in the field, they found the bonding process overwhelming and were worried about its effects on their business. Knowing their dedication to quality work, we walked them through each step of the bond application, making it easy for them to meet South Portland's licensing requirements. This helped them kick off their business smoothly and establish themselves as a trustworthy contractor.

2. Apply for Your Bond

You can quickly get a quote for your bond premium when you fill out the online application. Only essential details are required on the form, including the bond amount, bond type and other essential information.

3. Get a Quote

Most of our valued customers receive an instant, no-obligation quote after applying online. If your situation is more complicated, we will deliver your quote within 48 hours. We have more than a decade of experience meeting Maine’s surety bond needs, and we are available to answer your questions.

4. Buy Your Bond

The final step is to pay your bond premium. We have an online payment portal for your convenience. Once the payment is made, we will prepare the bond and send it to you via email. Upon request, we can also mail the paperwork to you. 

If you come across a challenge or have questions, contact us or call us at (877) 514-5146.

Bond requirements for contractors in Maine vary by trade. Some bonds are regulated by state departments, while others are set by local governments. The obligee is the governing authority overseeing the project.

As specified in Public Works Contractors' Surety Bond Law of 1971, contracts over $125,000 for public works, such as the construction or repair of public buildings and highways, must include the following surety bonds:

A. Performance Bond: Equal to the full contract amount, this bond ensures the contractor meets the contract’s terms and includes the surety company's contact details.

B. Payment Bond: Also equal to the full contract amount, this bond protects those supplying labor or materials and must list the surety company's contact information.

Additionally, some municipalities in Maine with specific bond requirements for contractors include:

When a contractor is required to hold a bond in Maine, that bond must remain active to continue working in the trade. You will need to renew your bond prior to the expiration date to remain compliant with regulations. We will contact you with renewal instructions when the expiration date approaches. 

In Maine, the state issues licenses solely for electricians and plumbers, while licensing for other building trades is managed by individual municipalities.

For an electrician license:

1. Complete the relevant application form.
2. Provide proof of work experience, including total field hours.
3. Submit evidence of passing the electrician exam.
4. Pay the required license and application fees.

For a plumbing license:

1. Complete the relevant application form.
2. Provide documented proof of work experience, detailing hours worked in the plumbing field.
3. Submit evidence of passing the plumbing exam.
4. Pay the required application and license fees.

Learn how to get a contractor license in Maine using our resources. For complete details on licensing procedures and required documents, contact your local or state authority.