New Hampshire contractor license bond
No statewide bondNew Hampshire has no state contractor license bond.
The state licenses only specific trades through the OPLC, primarily electricians and plumbers plus related gas and mechanical work, along with asbestos and lead abatement; there's no statewide general-contractor or home-improvement license and no statewide bond. Any bond a general contractor encounters is local, for example the City of Manchester requires a $5,000 surety bond plus a $10,000 payment bond. [Source: NH OPLC ↗]
Good to know
A New Hampshire general contractor needs no state license or bond, but must check the city or town and pull the right trade licenses for the work.
If your city requires a bond, estimate the cost
You pay a percentage of the bond amount each year, based on credit.
About 1.5–3.0% of a $25,000 bond.
Estimate only. Your real rate is set by the surety after a quick credit check, and the premium is typically nonrefundable once the bond is issued.
How to get licensed in New Hampshire
- 1New Hampshire has no statewide contractor license, so start with the building department in the city or county where you'll work and ask what they require.
- 2Meet that jurisdiction's local license, bond, and insurance rules — amounts vary by city, so confirm them directly.
- 3If you do electrical, plumbing, or HVAC work, get the matching state trade license, which is issued separately.
- 4Keep your local registration and any trade licenses current as you renew.
New Hampshire contractor bond FAQ
Does New Hampshire require a contractor license bond?
No. New Hampshire doesn't license general or home-improvement contractors at the state level and imposes no statewide contractor surety bond.
How much does a contractor license bond cost in New Hampshire?
You don't pay the full bond amount. You pay an annual premium that's a small percentage of it, usually around 1–3% with good credit and more while your credit is still building. Use the calculator above to estimate the premium for your bond amount.
Who regulates contractor licensing in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire has no single statewide contractor licensing agency — general contractors are licensed by city and county building departments. A New Hampshire general contractor needs no state license or bond, but must check the city or town and pull the right trade licenses for the work.
What does a contractor license bond protect?
A contractor license bond protects your customers and the licensing authority, not you. It guarantees you'll follow the state's contractor laws; if you break them and someone is owed money, they can file a claim against the bond, and you must repay the surety.
Is the bond premium refundable?
Generally no. Once the bond is issued, the premium is earned by the surety and is typically nonrefundable, even if you never have a claim. Most bonds run one to two years, and you renew to keep your license active.
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Bond requirements and amounts are set by NH OPLC and can change. Confirm the current figure with the authority before you buy. This page is general information, not legal advice.