Question: A contractor tells me that it...

Question: A contractor tells me that it will be less expensive if I obtain the permits and act as owner/builder on the home-improvement project. Is this wise?

Answer: If you are working with a licensed contractor, there is no reason he should ask you to pull the permits, other than he wants to give you the responsibility for the project. The contractor should be the responsible party.

Have you checked if he is licensed? Unlicensed individuals usually will work through people requiring them to pull the permits and operate as an owner/builder, while they are only being paid for “advisory status situations.”

The responsibility for paying subcontractors and material suppliers becomes yours. Also, the proper insurance coverage becomes your responsibility.

Licensed contractors rarely would request you to pull the permits and this, in my opinion, is a “red flag” regarding the financial stability of the firm.

A licensed contractor has the responsibility of hiring the workmen, the subcontractors, insurance, the handling of plans and specifications and the pulling of permits.