What MN Contractor Check Badges Mean
MN Contractor Check badges show which parts of a contractor’s business we’ve actually reviewed. Badges can’t be bought. They’re earned by submitting documentation, passing our checks, and keeping key items up to date.
As licenses, insurance policies, or other documents expire, related badges may be
removed until updated proof is provided. Badges reflect the status at the time of
our last verification.
Verification tiers
Overall MNCC Verification Levels
These tiers summarize how many core areas a contractor has verified with MNCC. Individual badges below explain what was checked to earn that tier.
● Elite+
Elite+ Contractor
Highest-level verification. Multiple years of clean licensing, strong
insurance, documented systems, and excellent reputation with no major red flags.
● Elite
Elite Contractor
Strong documentation, solid track record, and consistent professional practices
across most of the categories MNCC scores.
● Verified
Verified Contractor
Fully vetted for licensing, insurance, and core paperwork standards with no
serious red flags at the time of review.
● Standard
Standard Contractor
Legally compliant in key areas but still building out documentation,
systems, or history needed for higher tiers.
● Not yet verified
Not Yet Verified by MNCC
MN Contractor Check has not completed a review of this contractor’s documentation.
Lack of a badge is not a guarantee of problems — it simply means we have not
verified them yet.
Core verification
Core Licensing & Insurance Badges
These badges tell you whether MN Contractor Check has confirmed the legal, licensing, and insurance basics that protect Minnesota homeowners.
Licensing & Registration
Core checks
We use state licensing databases and business records to confirm that the company is properly registered for the work they advertise in Minnesota.
License Verified – Residential
Active Minnesota residential building contractor license confirmed at time of review.
License Verified – Specialty Trade
Trade-specific license verified for specialties such as roofing, electrical, plumbing, or HVAC.
License Verified – Commercial
Licensing and registration support performing commercial projects, not only residential work.
Business in Good Standing
Business registration was active and in good standing with the state at time of review.
Clear Responsible Owner
State or business records list a clear owner or qualifying person for the company.
Single Primary Legal Entity
Operations are run under one primary legal entity instead of confusing shell companies.
Minnesota-Based
Primary business address is located in Minnesota, not a temporary out-of-state office.
Local Service Radius Declared
Contractor clearly lists a typical service radius instead of advertising “statewide” with no limits.
No Active License Suspension
Our check did not find an active license suspension or revocation at time of review.
Permit Knowledge Confirmed
Contractor demonstrates basic understanding of when city or county permits are typically required.
Permit-Friendly Contractor
Clearly explains when permits are needed and is willing to pull or help pull them for eligible work.
Trade Scope Matches License
Services advertised generally match the type of work their license allows them to perform.
No “Unlicensed But Cheap” Ads
Contractor does not advertise working without a license as a way to lower price.
Insurance & Worker Coverage
Core checks
These badges rely on current certificates of insurance and other proof submitted directly to MN Contractor Check.
General Liability on File
MNCC has a current certificate of general liability insurance for this contractor.
Liability Limits Disclosed
Contractor is willing to share liability policy limits with clients on request.
Workers’ Comp Coverage
Evidence of workers’ compensation coverage or valid exemption has been provided to MNCC.
Bonded Contractor
Contractor provided proof of bonding where required or typical for their trade or project type.
Subcontractor Coverage Policy
Contractor has a stated approach to verifying insurance for subcontractors they use.
Policy Dates Verified
Insurance documents included clear effective and expiration dates in force at time of review.
Certificate Provider Verified
Insurance certificate originates from a licensed provider or agent, not an unverified template.
Additional Insured Available
Contractor can list clients, HOAs, or property managers as “additional insured” when appropriate.
Auto / Fleet Coverage Confirmed
Evidence that work vehicles are insured under a commercial or appropriate auto policy.
Higher Limits for High-Risk Work
Liability limits appear appropriate for higher-risk work such as roofing, tree, or structural work.
No “Cash-Only / No Insurance” Ads
Business does not advertise “cash only, no paperwork” as a way around insurance or taxes.
Proof of Coverage on Request
Contractor is willing to provide updated insurance certificates to homeowners upon request.
No Large Coverage Gaps Found
Our document review did not suggest major gaps in coverage during the last policy cycle.
Paperwork & process
Professional Practices & Paperwork Badges
These badges highlight how contractors handle contracts, change orders, money, and project communication — the things that prevent surprises mid-project.
Contracts & Scope of Work
Paperwork
We review sample contracts and proposals to see how clearly work and pricing are defined for homeowners.
Contract-First Contractor
Uses a signed written agreement before starting substantial work instead of relying on verbal promises.
Line-Item Estimates
Estimates break out major pieces of the job instead of a single vague lump sum.
Detailed Written Proposals
Proposals describe what is included, where work happens, and what is excluded.
Written Change-Order Process
Follows a standard written change-order form whenever scope or price changes mid-project.
Estimated Start & Finish Window
Contracts give an estimated start window and general completion timeline for the project.
Scope Clarifies What’s Not Included
Documents call out key items that are not included so expectations are clear up front.
Material Specs Listed
Jobs specify material types or brands instead of only saying “standard” or “builder grade.”
Upgrade Options Documented
Upgrades from base options are written out with clear pricing instead of “we’ll see later.”
Allowances Explained
Any allowance items (like fixtures or finishes) are defined and capped in writing.
Punch List Process
Contractor includes a basic process for final walk-through and punch list completion.
Written Change Authorization
Homeowner signs off on significant extras or reductions before work is done.
Plain-Language Contracts
Contracts are written in relatively plain language instead of confusing legalese only.
Payments, Deposits & Change Orders
Paperwork
These badges cover how money is handled — deposits, progress payments, documentation, and financial transparency.
Reasonable Deposit Range
Typical deposits fall in a reasonable range for Minnesota projects and trade type.
No Large Upfront Deposits
Contractor does not routinely request very large deposits or full payment before work begins.
Clear Payment Schedule
Contracts spell out when deposits, progress draws, and final payments are due.
Change-Order Pricing in Writing
Changes in scope are priced clearly so homeowners can approve or decline before work.
Receipts & Invoices Provided
Homeowners receive written receipts or invoices for payments instead of cash-only records.
Multiple Payment Options
Offers traceable payment methods, not only cash or untracked payment tools.
Taxes & Fees Broken Out
Sales tax, permit fees, or disposal fees are listed instead of hidden inside lump sums.
Financing Terms in Writing
Any financing arrangements are documented with clear terms and responsibilities.
Final Payment After Substantial Completion
Standard practice is collecting final payment once work is substantially complete.
Lien Waivers Available
Contractor can provide lien waivers when applicable after payment is made in full.
No “Cash for No-Paperwork” Marketing
Does not advertise cash discounts tied to skipping contracts, permits, or receipts.
Written Refund / Dispute Policy
Basic information is available on how disputes, refunds, or corrections are handled.
Communication & Documentation
Paperwork
These badges show extra effort around photos, updates, and documentation that help homeowners follow along.
Dedicated Office/Admin Contact
Provides an office or admin contact for scheduling, billing questions, and follow-up.
Scheduling / CRM System in Use
Uses scheduling or CRM software to track jobs, appointments, and communication instead of paper-only notes.
Written Project Updates
Longer projects include written or digital updates when requested by the homeowner.
Photo Documentation Provided
Routinely provides photos or videos to document work progress or completion.
Hidden Work Photo Log
Provides photos of work that will later be covered up, such as inside walls or underground.
Written Cleanup Standards
Contracts outline what cleanup, debris removal, or site restoration is included in the job.
Written Warranty Policy
Warranty length and coverage are given in writing instead of word-of-mouth only promises.
Manufacturer Warranty Help
Contractor helps homeowners register or understand manufacturer warranties when applicable.
Emergency Contact Info Shared
Homeowners know who to call if something urgent happens during the project window.
Jobsite Access Plan Explained
Contractor explains how crews, trucks, or equipment will access the property ahead of time.
Insurance Claim Documentation Help
Can provide documentation that supports homeowners during an insurance claim process.
Final Project Summary Available
Offers a simple summary of what was completed, including any changes, at project close-out.
Digital-Friendly Communication
Comfortable using email, text, or portals to keep a written record of key decisions.
Reputation & History
Reputation, Track Record & Stability Badges
These badges speak to how long the business has operated under the same name, and how consistent their reputation appears across public sources.
Business History & Stability
Reputation
We look for stability: the same business name, similar branding, and steady presence — not a new name every storm season.
3+ Years in Business
Public records show at least three consecutive years of operation under this business entity.
5+ Years in Business
At least five years of documented operation in the trade or closely related work.
10+ Years in Business
Business records show the company has operated for ten or more years under this or a clearly connected name.
10+ Years Trade Experience
Owner or key leaders report ten or more years of hands-on experience in this trade.
Minnesota-Owned Business
Ownership and primary operations are based in Minnesota rather than an out-of-state parent company.
Consistent Branding
Name, logo, and contact information generally match across license, website, and listings.
No Pattern of Name Flips
We did not see a pattern of frequently changing business names without clear reasons.
Physical Mailing Address
Contractor uses a real mailing address, not only a vague description or disposable PO box.
Active in Local Community
Shows involvement in local events, sponsorships, or Minnesota community partnerships.
Service Area Clearly Defined
Contractor communicates where they normally work and avoids overpromising statewide coverage.
Year-Round Operation
Appears to operate year-round, not only during storm seasons or short-term booms.
Owner / Family-Run Disclosed
Ownership or family involvement is clearly communicated so homeowners know who is behind the work.
Reviews & Client Experience
Reputation
MN Contractor Check doesn’t sell “top 10” lists, but we do look for consistent patterns in public reviews and feedback.
Established Public Reviews
Business has a reasonable number of public reviews across one or more major platforms.
High Homeowner Review Score
Overall review trend is generally positive over time, not just a one-time burst.
Recent Reviews Present
At least some reviews are from the last few years, reflecting current performance.
Responds to Reviews
Contractor appears to respond to reviews — especially critical ones — instead of ignoring them.
Low Complaint History
We did not see the same serious complaint repeated many times in public reviews.
References Available
Contractor can provide references or past clients willing to speak about their experience.
Portfolio / Gallery Online
Shows photos or examples of completed work homeowners can review.
Multi-Platform Reputation Check
Reputation appears generally consistent across more than one review or listing site.
Verified Client Testimonials On File
Testimonials are tied to identifiable projects rather than anonymous or generic statements only.
No Major Recent News Scandals Found
Our basic checks did not surface recent, widely reported stories about serious misconduct.
Safety & oversight
Safety, Training & Oversight Badges
These badges reflect whether the contractor has written safety practices, training efforts, and oversight for crews on site.
Safety Basics
Safety
We’re not a safety inspector, but we look for signs that a company takes safety seriously and has basic systems in place.
Written Safety Program
Has a written safety program or policy that crews are expected to follow on every job.
On-Site Supervisor Present
A supervisor or lead is routinely present or checking in at active job sites.
Regular Equipment Checks
Contractor reports periodically inspecting tools and equipment for safe operation.
PPE Standards in Use
Has clear expectations for PPE like hard hats, eye protection, and hearing protection when required.
Traffic / Pedestrian Control
Uses cones, tape, or signage when work affects driveways, sidewalks, or public spaces.
Hazards Explained to Homeowners
Contractor explains major safety risks before starting work on the property.
Weather & Site Conditions Considered
Adjusts work or equipment plans based on weather and site conditions when safety is affected.
Fall Protection Awareness
Acknowledges responsibility for fall protection on elevated or roof work where required.
Children & Pets Safety Guidance
Gives basic advice on keeping children and pets safe around work areas and equipment.
Incident Response Plan
Has a basic plan for what happens if there is an injury or property damage on site.
Training & Oversight
Safety
These badges highlight additional effort around training, checklists, and keeping crews working in a consistent, safe way.
New-Hire Safety Orientation
New employees get a basic safety orientation before being sent to job sites alone.
Regular Safety / Toolbox Talks
Holds recurring safety or toolbox talks to keep crews aware of risks and best practices.
Equipment-Specific Training
Specialized equipment (like lifts or saws) includes training for those who operate it.
Written Jobsite Checklists
Uses checklists or routines to set up, run, and close out job sites consistently.
Subcontractor Safety Expectations
Has stated safety expectations for subcontractors working under their direction.
Incident Reporting & Follow-Up
Uses a basic system to record incidents and follow up so the same issues are less likely to repeat.
Homeowner Safety Instructions
Provides guidance to homeowners on where they should or should not be during work.
Emergency Services Ready
Crews know how to contact emergency services quickly if something serious occurs.
OSHA-10/30 Trained Leads
One or more crew leads have completed OSHA-10 or OSHA-30 safety training relevant to their trade.
Extras & Specialties
Extra & Specialty Badges
Not every contractor will earn these. They highlight specific capabilities or ways the contractor serves homeowners beyond the basics.
Storm & Emergency Response
Extras
These badges help homeowners understand which contractors regularly handle urgent work and surge in demand after storms.
Storm & Emergency Ready
Routinely handles storm or emergency work with systems to manage high-volume calls.
24/7 Emergency Contact Offered
Offers a way to reach the business after hours for urgent safety-related issues.
Temporary Tarp / Board-Up Services
Can provide temporary tarping, board-up, or stabilization after damage occurs.
Insurance Adjuster Coordination
Familiar with working alongside insurance adjusters during storm and loss claims.
Priority Response Processes
Has processes to triage which jobs are true safety emergencies versus routine work.
Temporary Power / Utilities Awareness
Understands basics of working around downed lines, gas, or utilities and when to stand down.
Storm Backlog Communication
Communicates realistic timelines when storm demand is high, instead of overpromising.
Local, Not Temporary Storm Chaser
Storm work is performed as a local Minnesota company, not a short-term traveling outfit.
HOA, Multi-Unit & Commercial
Extras
These badges highlight contractors familiar with working for boards, managers, and larger sites with more rules.
HOA Policies Familiar
Experienced working with HOAs or associations that have specific rules and processes.
Multi-Unit Site Experience
Has performed work at townhomes, condos, or apartment properties with shared spaces.
Commercial Project Ready
Has experience with larger commercial or municipal projects, not only single-family homes.
Vendor Compliance Paperwork
Used to filling out W-9s, COIs, and other vendor paperwork for property managers.
Board Meeting Experience
Comfortable presenting options or answering questions in HOA or board meetings when needed.
Multi-Bid Comparison Friendly
Provides proposals that are easy for boards to compare against other bids.
Repeat Vendor Relationships
Has ongoing relationships with property managers or HOAs, not only one-off projects.
Complex Site Logistics Aware
Used to planning for parking, access, and communication at multi-building or tight sites.
Environmental & Site Care
Extras
These badges focus on how contractors treat your property, neighbors, and the environment while they work.
Jobsite Protection Practices
Uses mats, tarps, or other protections to reduce damage to lawns, driveways, or landscaping.
Debris & Dumping Practices Disclosed
Communicates where debris goes and how materials are disposed of or recycled.
Dust & Noise Consideration
Acknowledges dust and noise impacts and tries to minimize them when practical.
Neighbor Courtesy Mindset
Communicates with neighbors when work, parking, or noise may temporarily affect them.
Site Cleanup Photos Available
Can provide photos that show condition of the site after cleanup is complete.
Material Recycling Effort
Makes reasonable efforts to recycle or re-use materials where it is practical to do so.
Driveway / Surface Protection
Uses pads or planning around heavy equipment to reduce the chance of surface damage.
Stormwater & Runoff Awareness
Is mindful of where wash water or debris run-off goes, especially near drains or waterways.
Team, Subs & Hiring Practices
Extras
These badges highlight how the contractor explains who is doing the work and how crews are organized.
Clear Who Is On Site
Explains whether employees, subs, or mixed crews will be on site for the work.
Documented Subcontractor Agreements
Uses written agreements with subcontractors instead of only informal arrangements.
Backgrounded Key Crew Leads
Key supervisors or leads receive additional screening or vetting where appropriate.
Background Checks on File
Performs background checks for certain roles and keeps results on file where appropriate.
MVR Reviewed for Drivers
Reviews motor vehicle records for employees who routinely drive company vehicles.
Subcontractor Vetting Process
Uses a defined process to vet subcontractors for licensing, insurance, and fit before hiring them.
Apprentice / Training Mindset
Business invests in training newer workers rather than constant turnover every season.
Crew Identification
Workers typically wear branded apparel or otherwise identify themselves as part of the crew.
Language / Communication Consideration
Makes reasonable efforts to ensure homeowners can communicate with someone in charge on site.
Consistent Core Crew
Relies on a consistent core team rather than entirely new faces each project.
Owner Involved in Operations
Owner or leadership is actively involved in day-to-day operations or quality control.
Specialty Credentials
Extras
These badges highlight manufacturer certifications, energy-focused options, and help with insurance-heavy projects.
Manufacturer-Certified Installer
Holds current certification from a major manufacturer for installing specific products or systems.
Energy-Efficient Options Offered
Routinely offers higher-efficiency materials or designs and can explain the tradeoffs to homeowners.
Insurance Claim Assistance
Helps homeowners understand scopes, documentation, and timelines when work is tied to an insurance claim.
Important: MN Contractor Check is a verification and information
resource, not a guarantee of performance. Badges mean we saw documentation or
patterns that support the statements above at the time of review. Always review
contracts carefully and ask questions before you sign.
Confidence before you hire
A quick contractor check can save you from expensive mistakes.
MNCC’s verification system helps you confirm the essentials—credentials, paperwork quality, and potential risks—so your project starts on solid ground.
- ✓ Insurance, license & registration checks
- ✓ Quote/contract clarity review
- ✓ Red-flag spotting before you sign