Yes. You need a license to do or install epoxy flooring for clients in the United States. Professionals in the country who install epoxy flooring are considered flooring contractors. To do the installation, the contractors must have contractor’s licenses, and potential customers will want to see the license number online to verify it.
If you appear hesitant to provide this information as an epoxy flooring contractor, the client may want to consider another contractor. Contractors are always expected to provide documentation proving their insurance coverage and bonding to clients.
Epoxy floors are becoming a popular flooring option. Their stylish appearance, gritty durability, and ease of installation make them an excellent choice for commercial and industrial settings, such as parking garages, warehouses, kitchens, and healthcare facilities.
While epoxy has a higher initial cost, it is versatile and can be designed and built to your needs. Its floors are moisture and chemical-resistant, with a strong, seamless surface that is resistant to mold, mildew, and microbes. It is also resistant to impacts and thermal shock.
Starting an epoxy flooring business necessitates the acquisition and maintenance of various licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments. You may even be required to have a general contractor’s license in some states. So, it is always recommended that you confirm your state requirements.
Licenses and permits may also be required at the state, county, or city levels. Contractors who fail to apply for or renew a required license are typically subject to penalties, fees, or sanctions, depending on the severity of the violation. Local governing bodies are frequently prohibited from issuing building permits to contractors who are not licensed at the state level.
Licenses Needed to Do Epoxy Flooring and How to Apply for Them
If you are looking to start epoxy flooring in the United States, here are the basic licenses to consider;
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General Contractor License
In most states in the U S., you have to obtain a contractor license from the state board of contractors to be able to carry out epoxy flooring operations. Requirements for this kind of license will vary by state. A good number of states mandate firms to obtain a contracting license, while other states simply have contractors register their firms with the board.
Aside from that, you may need to apply for more than one license classification, as many states offer different licenses for residential and commercial contracting as well as engineering and building contracting.
How to Apply
Applying for a general contractor license is a difficult and time-consuming process. The licensing process differs greatly from state to state, but most states require candidates to complete a license application, have eligible party pass exams, and submit background checks before a license is issued.
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Business License
A business license is any document granted to you by a government agency that gives you the right to operate a business activity in your area. This license indicates that the epoxy flooring business has been legally recognized by the state to conduct business.
How to Apply
Visit the U.S. Small Business Administration. You only have to fill out a form with your social security number and profession. This license will cost around $100, but the cost can range from $50 to $400. An additional processing fee of about $25 can also be added.
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Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)
An employer identification number is a nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service to new businesses. It is required when filing state and federal taxes, and it is just as critical to a company as a Social Security Number is to an individual.
Your EIN can be used with vendors, clients, and when opening a business bank account. Others may refer to an EIN as a Federal Tax Identification Number or a Federal Employer Identification Number, but there are interchangeable.
How to Apply
The IRS provides several options to apply for an EIN. You can apply online, by fax, or by mail. Applicants who are currently not in the United States but are seeking to immigrate to the U.S. for business purposes can also choose to apply by phone.
For U.S-based applicants, the online application is the easiest and fastest method. For the online application, the IRS’ online EIN assistant offers an easy step-by-step form. The online application form is available Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. EST.
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Insurance
Although not technically a license, adequate insurance is required for any construction or contractor business in the United States.
If a customer sues your company, all of your hard work could be for nothing if you don’t have the proper business insurance. Consider the following epoxy flooring installation business insurance coverage to ensure you have adequate protection to keep your business running:
- General liability insurance
- Business property insurance
- Commercial auto insurance
- Business interruption insurance
How to Apply
To get the insurance you need for your epoxy flooring business, reach out or request free insurance cost quotes online with companies like Hiscox. You only have to fill out the simple questionnaire and they will provide the cost of your insurance policy.