Below are points of interest and frequently asked questions to understand before selecting your contractor.Is the contractor licensed?

A city or town privilege license does not mean the contractor is a General Contractor and recognized by the State. A privilege license is a licensing requirement of every person, firm, company or corporation engaged in any business, vocation, occupation or profession within the city or town limits. Or….A privilege license allows officials to know who is conducting business in the town, as well as the location and type of business. A privilege license allows a construction company to accomplish projects that do not equal or exceed $30,000.00 in value on any single project. Any single project exceeding $30,000.00 in value requires a Licensed General Contractor to accomplish that project task.

A General Contractor recognized by the State of North Carolina is classified in the following categories:  Building, Residential, Highway, Public Utilities, Specialty and Unclassified.  Each General Contractor classification is further categorized by Limitations. These limitations are as follows:

  • Unlimited License Requirements: Unlimited, no restriction on project monetary value
  • Intermediate License Requirements: Up to $1,000,000.00 on any single project
  • Limited License Requirements: Up to $500,000.00 on any single project

Carolina Marine Structures Inc. holds an Unlimited General Contractors License (S-Marine and Public Utilities)

Is the contractor insured?

Lack of proper insurance (General Liability and Workers Comp) can leave you and your property vulnerable in the event of an accident.

Is the contractor Bondable?

A clear industry and business indicator of the financial solvency, institutional backing, and assigned risk value of a contractor to complete any given project requiring a surety bond.

What type of contract does the contractor provide?

Will a written contract be provided that outlines a clear understanding of all associated terms and costs or will you only have a verbal contract that leaves room for interpretation by both parties involved?

What regulatory requirements are involved with the project?

Can the contractor articulate the regulatory and governing directives that have a direct impact on your project?

What are NC State Buildings Code requirements?

Will the contractor’s installation meet code requirements? Will you be provided with set of project specific drawings that are sealed by a North Carolina Professional Engineer/Architect?

What types of fasteners are used?

Are fasteners and hardware components marine grade aluminum, hot-dipped galvanized, stainless steel, or carbon steel?

Will foundation materials be driven or water jetted in position?

Driven piles produce bearing load…..jetted piles do not.

Who coordinates permits?

Will the required permits (Exemption, General or Major CAMA, County, or Town) be obtained by the contractor or you?