BAL Home & Commercial Contracting, LLC | BHC Contracting

Texas does not have a statewide general contractor license. However, many trades used on a home project (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) require state or local licenses or certifications, and some cities have contractor registration or permitting requirements. In Houston you should verify that the contractor pulls required City of Houston permits, and ask to see any trade licenses, local registrations, and proof of experience for the scope of work.

At minimum ask for proof of general liability insurance and ask whether the contractor carries workers’ compensation or requires subcontractors to carry it; if they do not carry workers’ comp, get written confirmation of how jobsite injuries will be handled. Require that the contractor pull all necessary City of Houston permits (building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and any floodplain permits) and provide a written contract that lists scope, materials, schedule, payment terms, and change order procedures. Request copies of subcontractor insurance certificates and agree on lien waivers or retainage terms to protect against subcontractor liens.

A qualified contractor will design and build to local building codes and floodplain requirements, coordinate required inspections, and recommend climate-appropriate products and details — for example proper roof attachment/coatings, impact- or storm-rated windows when appropriate, elevated utilities or flood-resistant materials in flood-prone areas, corrosion-resistant fasteners in coastal zones, and ventilation/moisture-control strategies for Houston’s humid climate. They should also include contingency planning for weather delays, advise about flood and wind mitigation options, and document any code- or permit-related requirements that affect the scope and cost.