Dwelling Contractor Surety Bond in Wisconsin

What this bond requires in Wisconsin

Wisconsin DSPS issues a Dwelling Contractor certification to the business and a Dwelling Contractor Qualifier credential to a designated individual. The business must carry liability insurance and either a $25,000+ surety bond or restricted-scope certification. The bond is conditioned on compliance with the Uniform Dwelling Code (Wis. Admin. Code SPS 320-325). Surety must give DSPS 30 days written notice before cancellation.

Who requires it

The dwelling contractor surety bond is required by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) under Wis. Stat. § 101.654; Wis. Admin. Code § SPS 305.31.

How to file in Wisconsin

Applicants apply through Wisconsin online LicensE portal. The Dwelling Contractor business submits Form 3096 with proof of $25,000+ surety bond and certificate of liability insurance; the Qualifier individual submits Form 3097 after completing a 12-hour DCQ initial course. Restricted applicants instead file Form 3098 with a smaller bond and acknowledgment that project costs will not exceed the bond amount.

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FAQ

Common questions

Is a dwelling contractor surety bond required in Wisconsin?

Standard Dwelling Contractor certification requires a surety bond of at least $25,000. Restricted certification allows a smaller bond but caps project size at the bond amount.

How much is the bond in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin does not publish a single flat amount. See the state-specific notes for how it is determined.

Who requires the bond?

The bond is required by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS).

How is the bond filed?

Applicants apply through Wisconsin online LicensE portal. The Dwelling Contractor business submits Form 3096 with proof of $25,000+ surety bond and certificate of liability insurance; the Qualifier individual submits Form 3097 after completing a 12-hour DCQ initial course. Restricted applicants instead file Form 3098 with a smaller bond and acknowledgment that project costs will not exceed the bond amount.

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.