To vet a concrete contractor in Troy, MI, start by searching the business on the state's LARA license lookup and confirming it holds either a residential builder license or a maintenance and alteration license that includes the concrete trade. Michigan law treats laying concrete on residential property as maintenance and alteration work, so a license is generally required for residential jobs over $600. Then read the written contract, confirm who pulls permits, and ask for a certificate of insurance.
Why a state license matters for concrete
Under Michigan's occupational code, a maintenance and alteration contractor includes a person who, for compensation, performs the laying of concrete on residential property. MCL 339.2401 sets that definition, and MCL 339.2404 lists concrete among the trades the state can license. There is an exemption for small jobs where the total contract price is under $600.
The license protects you in practical ways. Applicants pass an exam, and the state can investigate complaints. Michigan law also says a contractor who is required to hold a license but does not cannot bring a lawsuit to collect payment or file a construction lien, which gives owners leverage when something goes wrong.
How to check a license
1. Go to the LARA license lookup. 2. Search by the business name or the individual's name. 3. Confirm the license type: residential builder, or maintenance and alteration contractor with the concrete trade listed. 4. Check that the license status is active and the name matches the name on your contract.
LARA's maintenance and alteration contractor information explains the trades and how licensing works.
What contractor advertising should show
Michigan rules require residential builders and maintenance and alteration contractors to include their name and license number as they appear on the license, along with their business address, in advertising. A phone number alone is not enough. If an ad, yard sign or website shows only a phone number, ask for the license number and look it up.
Read the contract
A good written contract for concrete work should include:
- The scope: areas, square footage and thickness.
- Base preparation and any base repair allowance.
- The concrete mix, including strength and air entrainment.
- Finish, joint layout and any reinforcement.
- Who pulls permits and schedules inspections.
- Removal of old concrete and cleanup.
- Payment schedule tied to progress, not large up-front payments.
- What happens if weather delays the pour.
Permits and insurance
For work in the public right-of-way, such as Troy's public sidewalks and driveway approaches, the contractor applies for the city permit and provides a certificate of insurance. Ask for a copy of the approved permit before work begins. Our Troy sidewalk and approach permit guide explains that process. For private work, ask for a certificate of liability insurance naming you as the certificate holder.
Red flags
- No license number, or a name that does not match the license.
- Pressure to pay a large deposit in cash.
- No written contract or a vague one-line scope.
- A suggestion to skip permits.
- A bid far below others with no explanation of what is left out.
Comparing bids
Use the contract checklist to compare bids line by line. Our driveway cost guide explains what drives price. For residential projects, see concrete driveways; for businesses and HOAs, see commercial concrete.
Around Troy
Whether your project is near Somerset Collection on Big Beaver or in a subdivision off Long Lake, the same checks apply. A few minutes on the state lookup can save months of trouble.
Common questions
Does a concrete contractor need a license in Michigan?
For residential work, generally yes. Michigan's occupational code includes laying concrete on residential property as maintenance and alteration work, so contractors need a residential builder or a maintenance and alteration license with the concrete trade, unless the total job is under $600. Check the LARA license lookup before hiring.
How do I look up a Michigan contractor license?
Use the LARA license lookup on the state's Accela site. Search by business or individual name, confirm the license type, check that the status is active and make sure the name matches your contract. Residential builder licenses and maintenance and alteration licenses with the concrete trade both cover residential concrete work.
What if my contractor does not have a license?
Michigan law says a contractor who is required to hold a license but does not cannot sue to collect payment or file a construction lien. That protects owners, but it does not fix poor work. You can also file a complaint with LARA. The best protection is to check the license before signing a contract.