Contractor License Bond in Pennsylvania

What this bond requires in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is one of the most commonly misrepresented states on bond broker websites. Many still list "Pennsylvania contractor license bond" requirements that do not exist. Here is what the Commonwealth actually requires: HICPA registration — Contractors performing more than $5,000/year in residential home improvement must register with the PA Office of Attorney General under the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act. This is registration, not licensing. There is no exam, no experience requirement, and no bond. Insurance — Minimum $50,000 personal injury liability and $50,000 property damage liability. You show proof when you register. Registration fee — $100 as of March 2, 2026. 2-year term — Registration renews every 2 years. Philadelphia's Department of Licenses and Inspections runs its own contractor licensing for work in the city. Pittsburgh has its own rules as well. Those are local requirements — the state does not impose them and they are not a statewide bond. If a broker is quoting you a "Pennsylvania contractor bond," ask them to cite the statute. There isn't one.

Who requires it

The contractor license bond is required by the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General under Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act — 73 P.S. § 517.1 et seq..

How to file in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania requires home improvement contractors performing more than $5,000/year in residential work to register with the Office of Attorney General under the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA). Registration requires proof of liability insurance — at least $50,000 personal injury and $50,000 property damage — and a $100 registration fee. No surety bond is required. Registration runs 2 years.

Common questions

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