Rhode Island Code of Regulations Title 440 - Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board
🏛️ Purpose and Authority
The primary purpose of these regulations is to administer and enforce the Contractors' Registration Law, R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 5-65. This law mandates that every contractor, remodeler, and most subcontractors engaged in building or repairing residential or commercial structures in Rhode Island must register with the CRLB. Failure to register subjects individuals to penalties for operating without proper authorization
📋 Registration and Licensing Requirements
Registration
According to 440-RICR-10-00-1.6, every person who engages in a discipline governed by the Board must be properly registered or licensed with the CRLB before engaging in those activities. No person shall provide services, offer their services to the public, or represent that they possess a registration/license unless they possess a valid one, unless authorized by the Board. Failure to properly obtain a registration or license subjects individuals to penalties for operating without proper authorization .
Licensing
Specific trades, such as commercial roofing contractors, are required to obtain a license in addition to registration. Licensing requirements include:
License Required: Commercial roofing contractors must obtain a license as per § 1.6.1.
Transference of License Prohibited: Licenses are non-transferable as per § 1.6.2.
Display of License Number: Contractors must display their license number as per § 1.6.3.
Business Entity Licenses: Business entities must obtain licenses as per § 1.6.4.
Nonresident Persons / Registered Agent: Nonresident contractors must designate a registered agent as per § 1.6.5.
Change of License: Contractors must notify the Board of any changes to their license as per § 1.6.6.
Effect on License Due to Loss of Responsible Person: Loss of the responsible person affects the license as per § 1.6.7.
Failure to comply with these licensing requirements may result in suspension or revocation of the contractor's license Legal Information Institute.
⚖️ Violations and Enforcement
Under 440-RICR-10-00-1.12, investigative members of the Board may issue violations to registrants/licensees or those required to be registered/licensed for violations of statutes or any part of the regulations. The Board may also immediately suspend or revoke any registration or license for just cause when the registrant/licensee is acting to the detriment of public health, welfare, and safety. Revocation and suspension may extend beyond the initial thirty (30) days after the opportunity for an administrative hearing has occurred Legal Information Institute.
🧾 Administrative Procedures
Complaints
The regulations outline procedures for filing complaints against contractors. Once a complaint is filed, the Board investigates the matter, which may involve site inspections and gathering evidence. If the contractor fails to respond or resolve the issue, the Board may proceed with hearings and potential disciplinary actions Rhode Island CRB.
Hearings and Appeals
Contractors have the right to a hearing if they contest a violation or disciplinary action. The Board conducts administrative hearings where both parties can present evidence and arguments. Decisions made by the Board can be appealed through the appropriate legal channels.
📚 Case Law and Precedents
While specific case law related to the CRLB regulations is not readily available in the provided sources, the enforcement of these regulations has led to disciplinary actions against contractors. For instance, contractors found guilty of violations may face suspension or revocation of their registration or license, as stipulated in the regulations.
✅ Summary
Rhode Island's Title 440 regulations establish a comprehensive framework for the registration and licensing of contractors. These regulations aim to ensure that contractors operate legally and ethically, thereby protecting consumers and maintaining industry standards. Contractors must adhere to registration and licensing requirements, comply with regulations, and participate in resolving complaints to avoid penalties and maintain their ability to work in the state.
RELATED Blog
0 comments