Why Licensing and Insurance Matter More Than You Think
Proper credentials protect you if something goes wrong on your property. A contractor license is necessary to perform most work legally in the state of Michigan, specifically for any work valued at more than $600 in labor and materials. Licensing is overseen by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). If an asphalt contractor cannot show you a current license, that is a serious red flag.
Beyond licensing, ask specifically about general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. General liability protects your property if something gets damaged during the project. Workers' compensation covers crew members if they are hurt on your job site. Always ask for certificates of insurance before work begins, not after. In Midland, contractors must also be registered with the City Building Department before permits are granted, and a registration form plus an annual fee are required. A contractor who skips this step may leave you holding the bag if permit issues arise later.
How to Verify a Michigan Contractor's License
You can look up any contractor's license status directly through the state. The Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) oversees general contractor licensing in Michigan. Visit the LARA website, search the contractor's name or license number, and confirm the license is active and in good standing. Michigan requires contractors to renew their license by May 31 every three years, so an expired license is not the same as a valid one.
What Questions Should You Ask Before Signing a Contract?
Asking the right questions upfront saves you from disputes and surprises later. Here are the key areas to cover before any asphalt contractor starts work on your Midland, MI, property.
Do You Provide a Written Estimate and Scope of Work?
Any reputable contractor will put everything in writing. A solid written estimate should include the scope of work, materials to be used, project timeline, and payment schedule. It should also spell out what prep work is included, such as grading, base repair, or edge work. Verbal promises are hard to enforce. If a contractor resists putting details in writing, move on.
What Materials and Equipment Will You Use?
The quality of asphalt mix and the type of equipment used directly affect how long your pavement lasts. Mid-Michigan's clay-heavy soils and harsh winters demand a properly compacted base and the right asphalt thickness for the application. Ask what mix design the asphalt contractor uses and whether they own their own paving equipment or subcontract it. Contractors who own and operate their own machinery tend to have tighter control over quality and scheduling.
For a look at what professional
pavement repair services involve, you can review the types of work that go into a lasting result.
Can You Provide References from Local Projects?
A contractor with a track record in Midland and the surrounding Mid-Michigan area will have references you can actually call. Ask for two or three recent customers, ideally with similar project types, whether that is a residential driveway near the Tridge area or a commercial parking lot off Eastman Avenue. Drive by completed projects if you can. Fresh, smooth pavement with clean edges and proper drainage is a good sign. Pitting, raveling, or poor transitions are warning signs.
What Warranty Do You Offer on Your Work?
Workmanship warranties vary widely in this industry. Some contractors stand behind their work for one to two years; others offer nothing in writing. Ask specifically what the warranty covers, whether it includes materials, labor, or both, and what the process is if a problem develops. A contractor confident in their work will not hesitate to put warranty terms in the contract.
Are You Bonded, and Do You Pull the Required Permits?
While there is no statewide bonding requirement for contractors in Michigan, some jurisdictions do require certain commercial or general contractors to obtain a bond as part of the local licensing process. Ask your asphalt contractor whether bonding applies to your project type. Also confirm that they will pull any necessary permits through the City of Midland's Building Department. Skipping permits can create problems when you sell your property or file an insurance claim.
What Does the Payment Schedule Look Like?
A reasonable payment schedule is a sign of a professional operation. Be cautious of any contractor who demands full payment upfront. A typical arrangement involves a deposit at signing, a progress payment mid-project, and a final payment upon completion to your satisfaction. Get the payment terms in writing as part of your contract.
