Arkansas Administrative Code Agency 033 - Contractors Licensing Board
1. What the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board Is
The Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board (Agency 033) is a state agency that regulates the licensing and professional standards of contractors in Arkansas.
Purpose: To protect the public by ensuring that contractors are qualified, competent, and follow state construction laws.
Scope: Covers general contractors, specialty contractors (like plumbing, electrical, or HVAC), and in some cases subcontractors.
Agency Code: 033 (used in the Arkansas Administrative Code to identify this agency’s rules).
2. Role of the Arkansas Administrative Code (AAC)
The Arkansas Administrative Code is the collection of rules that agencies use to implement state laws.
Example: The Arkansas Legislature passes laws about licensing and construction standards.
The Contractors Licensing Board writes rules in the AAC about how those laws are applied day-to-day.
The AAC allows contractors, inspectors, and the public to know the requirements, processes, and penalties for contractors in the state.
3. Main Responsibilities of Agency 033
The Contractors Licensing Board handles several key areas:
A. Licensing
Contractor categories: General, residential, commercial, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, specialty trades.
Requirements for applicants:
Proof of experience (usually several years in construction).
Passing an examination on technical knowledge and state law.
Providing financial statements to demonstrate responsibility.
Liability insurance or bonding to protect clients.
Renewal: Contractors must renew licenses periodically and may need continuing education.
B. Standards and Regulations
Professional conduct: Rules about honesty, contracts, and safe work practices.
Construction standards: Minimum standards for quality, safety, and compliance with building codes.
Advertising: Regulations on how contractors can advertise services (truthful, not misleading).
C. Disciplinary Actions
The Board can investigate complaints against licensed contractors.
Penalties may include:
License suspension or revocation.
Fines for violations.
Orders to correct unsafe or noncompliant work.
D. Examinations
The Board administers or oversees licensing exams for different contractor categories.
Exams test technical knowledge, legal requirements, and business practices.
E. Rulemaking and Administration
The Board adopts and updates rules through the Arkansas Administrative Code.
Holds public meetings for rule changes or license disputes.
Maintains records of licenses, disciplinary actions, and continuing education.
4. Structure of the Rules in Agency 033
The Arkansas Administrative Code for the Contractors Licensing Board is usually organized into chapters or sections:
Chapter 1 – General Provisions
Authority of the Board
Definitions of key terms
Scope of regulation
Chapter 2 – Licensing Requirements
Categories of licenses
Application procedures
Fees and renewals
Chapter 3 – Examinations
Exam content and format
Passing criteria
Chapter 4 – Standards of Practice
Ethical conduct
Contracting rules
Workmanship standards
Chapter 5 – Enforcement and Penalties
Complaint process
Disciplinary procedures
Fines, suspensions, and revocations
5. Why It Matters
Protects property owners and the public from unqualified or fraudulent contractors.
Ensures construction projects meet safety and quality standards.
Maintains professional accountability in the construction industry.
Helps the state enforce building and safety codes consistently.
In short, Agency 033 – Contractors Licensing Board is the official body that licenses, regulates, and disciplines contractors in Arkansas, ensuring that construction work is safe, legal, and professional.
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