RALEIGH — The North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors participated in a nationally coordinated enforcement effort with the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies during Oct. 14-25, 2024, supporting ongoing consumer protection initiatives.
During the two-week operation, NCLBGC opened six new complaints against unlicensed contractors and referred 54 cases to the Board’s attorney for injunctions. Investigators conducted compliance checks across multiple jurisdictions throughout North Carolina, including reviews of owner-contractor relationships.
During the same time frame and in response to Hurricane Helene’s impact on Western North Carolina, NCLBGC collaborated with the North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors and the North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating & Fire Sprinkler Contractors in a coordinated response effort.
“Our Board was created in 1925 for the purpose of safeguarding life, health and property and to promote public welfare,” stated Ryan Cody, executive director of the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors. “The Board regulates the practice of general contracting by determining the qualifications of persons seeking to enter the practice of general contracting, by enforcing the North Carolina General Statutes pertaining to general contractors, and by enforcing the Board’s Rules.”
The joint operation in Western North Carolina involved working alongside FEMA, local building inspection departments, and other state and local agencies to disseminate important information to citizens and communities affected by the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Through NASCLA’s support, the boards distributed informational brochures to help residents protect themselves from unlicensed storm chasers and unscrupulous individuals.
“The coordinated efforts nationally by participating state agencies, in conjunction with NASCLA, is to increase awareness of the potential risks of hiring unlicensed persons and to deter illegal construction activity,” Cody said.
This coordinated enforcement period highlights the ongoing commitment of state licensing agencies to protect consumers through education, enforcement, and disaster response efforts. For additional information on disaster recovery programs, individual assistance resources, or hurricane recovery donations, please visit the North Carolina Department of Public Safety website: ncdps.gov