Residential Builder/Specialty Contractor License Bond in South Carolina

What this bond requires in South Carolina

South Carolina LLR Residential Builders Commission licenses Residential Builders (homes up to 3 stories) and Residential Specialty Contractors (sub-trades like roofing, framing, siding). A surety bond may substitute for the cash deposit or financial statement requirement when proving financial responsibility. The Commission publishes a list of authorized surety companies and a standard bond form. Title 40 Chapter 59 governs the program.

Who requires it

The residential builder/specialty contractor license bond is required by the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR) - Residential Builders Commission under S.C. Code Title 40, Chapter 59; S.C. Code of Regulations Chapter 106.

How to file in South Carolina

Applicants apply through LLR online portal or by paper to the Residential Builders Commission with proof of experience, passage of the trade and business-law exams (where applicable), and one of three financial responsibility methods: cash deposit, financial statement, or surety bond on LLR prescribed form. The completed bond, signed by both principal and surety with power of attorney attached, is mailed to the Commission with the application package. Licenses renew biennially on June 30.

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FAQ

Common questions

Is a residential builder/specialty contractor license bond required in South Carolina?

Yes. South Carolina requires residential builder/specialty contractor license bonds issued by an admitted surety. The required amount is $5,000 to $15,000.

How much is the bond in South Carolina?

The bond amount is $5,000 to $15,000. Your annual premium is a small percentage of that, based on credit and experience.

Who requires the bond?

The bond is required by the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR) - Residential Builders Commission.

How is the bond filed?

Applicants apply through LLR online portal or by paper to the Residential Builders Commission with proof of experience, passage of the trade and business-law exams (where applicable), and one of three financial responsibility methods: cash deposit, financial statement, or surety bond on LLR prescribed form. The completed bond, signed by both principal and surety with power of attorney attached, is mailed to the Commission with the application package. Licenses renew biennially on June 30.

What does the bond cover?

Surety bonds protect the obligee, not the principal. If you fail to meet the obligation the bond guarantees, the surety pays the claim and recovers from you.

Is a surety bond the same as insurance?

No. Insurance protects you. A surety bond protects whoever required the bond. You repay the surety for any claim they pay.