Connecticut renewal guide
Home Improvement Contractor Registration
If this license is up for renewal, this page gives you the fee, the timeline, and the items that usually hold the filing up.
Start here
What matters before you file.
Check the fee, the renewal window, and the documents or insurance records that can slow approval down.
Issuing authority
Renewal period
Every 12 months
Renewal fee
$220.00
Bond requirement
No
Insurance requirement
Yes — General Liability
Before you renew
Get the filing straight.
- 1
Check the insurance certificates
Make sure the required policies are current and match what the board or agency expects before you file.
- 2
File with the board
File through Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) and pay the $220.00 renewal fee once the supporting proof is ready.
Renew online
Detailed notes
The fine print is here.
Connecticut Home Improvement Contractor Registration
The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) requires all contractors performing home improvements on residential property to register as a Home Improvement Contractor. This applies to any work valued at more than $200 on a single job or more than $1,000 in total within a 12-month period.
What This Registration Authorizes
Registered Home Improvement Contractors may perform permanent alterations, repairs, replacements, or additions to residential property, including roofing, siding, painting, remodeling, additions, basement finishing, decks, patios, driveways, and similar work. The registration does not cover new home construction or major commercial projects.
Insurance Requirements
- General Liability Insurance: Minimum $20,000 coverage required, with the DCP named as certificate holder
- Workers' Compensation: Required if you have employees
Guaranty Fund
All Home Improvement Contractors must participate in the Connecticut Home Improvement Guaranty Fund, which provides consumer protection for homeowners who suffer financial loss due to contractor default. An additional guaranty fund fee is collected with the application.
Renewal Process
- Application Fee: $220
- Renewal Period: Annually, expires March 31
- Renewal Fee: $220
- Renew Online: Through the eLicense portal at elicense.ct.gov
Consequences of Operating Without Registration
Performing home improvements without a valid DCP registration is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in prison, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. Civil penalties range from $500 for a first violation to $1,500 for subsequent violations. Unregistered contractors cannot enforce contracts or collect payment through legal action.
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.*
Official links
Check the board or agency directly.
Required documents
- Proof of Insurance
- guaranty_fund_fee
Source notes
Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection . Verified March 2026. https://portal.ct.gov/dcp/license-services-division/all-license-applications/home-improvement-applications
Rules move. Check Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.
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Next steps
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Connecticut checklist
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