Rules & Regulations of the State of Tennessee Title 0690 - General Services
The Rules & Regulations of the State of Tennessee, Title 0680 - Board for Licensing Contractors, outline the comprehensive framework for contractor licensing and conduct within Tennessee. This title is broken down into several chapters, each addressing specific aspects of the contracting profession.
Here's a breakdown of the key chapters and what they generally cover:
Introduction: Provides a table of contents and administrative history of the rules.
Chapter 0680-01 - Licensing: This is a crucial chapter covering the core requirements for obtaining and maintaining a contractor's license. It includes:
Application procedures and fees: Details what needs to be submitted for a license application, including financial information, references, and experience questionnaires.
Consideration of applications: How the Board reviews and approves applications, including requirements for "qualifying agents" (the individuals who pass the exams and are responsible for the business's construction practices).
License classifications: Outlines the different types of contractor licenses (e.g., building, electrical, mechanical, heavy construction, etc.) and their associated exam requirements.
Monetary limits: Explains how a contractor's monetary limit is determined based on their financial statement and experience, and the rules around exceeding those limits.
Joint ventures: Rules for licensed contractors combining their monetary limitations for larger projects.
Change of name/mode of operation: Procedures for licensees changing their business name or legal structure.
Civil penalties: Details the fines and disciplinary actions the Board can impose for violations of statutes, rules, or orders.
Unlawful bidding: Regulations concerning improper bidding practices.
License renewal and reinstatement: Procedures for renewing an expired or invalid license.
Continuing Education: New rules effective July 27, 2021, require continuing education for certain residential contractors.
Chapter 0680-02 - Rules of Procedure for Hearing Contested Cases: Details the process for administrative hearings in cases of disputed licensing or disciplinary actions.
Chapter 0680-03 - Limited Licensed Electricians: Specific rules and regulations for individuals holding a limited electrician license.
Chapter 0680-04 - Limited Licensed Plumbers: Specific rules and regulations for individuals holding a limited plumber license.
Chapter 0680-05 - Pre-Licensing Courses: Regulations concerning courses approved by the Board for pre-licensing education.
Chapter 0680-06 - General Liability Insurance: Requirements for general liability insurance that contractors must maintain.
Chapter 0680-07 - General Regulations for Home Improvement Contractors: Specific regulations for contractors performing home improvement work, including advertising rules, temporary licenses, and bonds.
Chapter 0680-08 - Go Build Tennessee: Likely pertains to programs or initiatives related to promoting careers in construction.
Chapter 0680-09 - Continuing Education: This chapter, effective July 27, 2021, details the new professional education standards required for certain licensed contractors.
Key aspects often highlighted in these regulations include:
Licensing Threshold: A Tennessee contractor's license is generally required before bidding or offering a price for projects $25,000 and up (including materials and labor) as a prime contractor. Subcontractors performing electrical, mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, and masonry work also need to be licensed if their portion of the project meets this threshold.
Business and Law Exam: All new license applicants, with some exceptions, are required to pass the "Tennessee Business and Law" exam.
Trade Exams: Depending on the classification, applicants may also need to pass specific "Trade" exams.
Qualifying Agent: A designated individual (owner, officer, or full-time employee) who has passed the necessary exams and is responsible for the business's construction practices.
Monetary Limit: Each license has a monetary limit, and contractors cannot bid on projects exceeding this limit (with a 10% tolerance in most cases).
Contracting in Correct Name: Licensees must contract and operate their business under the exact name in which they are licensed.
Disciplinary Actions: The Board has the authority to assess civil penalties and take other disciplinary actions for violations.
Where to find the full text of these rules and regulations:
It is highly recommended for anyone involved in contracting in Tennessee to consult the official and most current versions of these rules and regulations to ensure compliance. You can also contact the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors directly for questions.
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