Why Michigan Requires Home Improvement Salespeople (Not Just Builders) To Be Licensed — And Why It Matters to You
When you're planning a home improvement project in Michigan, you're probably thinking about design choices, budget, and timelines. But there's another crucial factor you should never overlook: Is the person selling you the project a licensed salesperson?
In Michigan, it's not just a best practice—it’s the law. And there’s a very good reason for it.
What the Law Says
Michigan law requires that anyone who solicits or secures home improvement work on behalf of a licensed residential builder or maintenance and alteration (M&A) contractor must be licensed as a salesperson through the state. This includes people working in showrooms, knocking on doors, or even calling you with a home renovation offer.
To become licensed, a salesperson must:
Pass a state exam
Be officially affiliated with a single licensed contractor
Have their license issued by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA)
Their pocket license card must be shown on request—and it’s your right to ask for it.
Don’t Let a Salesperson Into Your Home Without a License
This part is critical: You should never allow a home improvement salesperson into your home unless you’ve confirmed they are licensed by the State of Michigan.
Ask for their license number before they arrive. Verify it yourself using the state’s online license lookup tool. If they hesitate, avoid the question, or don’t provide proof—cancel the appointment.
Allowing an unlicensed individual into your home not only puts you at legal and financial risk—it could also compromise your personal safety.
Why Licensing Protects You
Licensing exists to protect homeowners. When you work with a licensed salesperson, you’re dealing with someone who is:
✅ Accountable: Licensed individuals answer to state regulators.
✅ Qualified: They understand the law, building codes, and ethical practices.
✅ Traceable: They’re connected to a legitimate contractor, not just operating under the radar.
The Dangers of Unlicensed Salespeople
Inviting an unlicensed salesperson into your home can lead to serious consequences:
❌ No Legal Protection: Contracts may be invalid or unenforceable in court.
❌ Risk of Scams: Unlicensed individuals may take deposits and disappear or misrepresent the job.
❌ No Background Screening: There’s no vetting process for unlicensed salespeople.
❌ Insurance & Permit Issues: You could be stuck with work that’s not up to code or not covered by insurance.
Red Flags to Watch For
Cancel the visit immediately if:
The salesperson won't share their license info in advance
They say they’ll send out a “specialist,” “inspector,” or “consultant” without explaining who they are or providing license details
If you don’t verify their license ahead of time, don’t let them in.
How to Check a License
Visit LARA’s website and use their public license lookup tool. You can search by name or license number and confirm they are legally allowed to sell home improvement services in Michigan.
Final Word
Letting someone into your home to sell you a remodeling project isn’t a casual decision—it’s a commitment. That’s why Michigan law requires home improvement salespeople to be licensed.
Before anyone steps through your door, ask for their license number and verify it yourself. It’s fast, simple, and one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from fraud, poor workmanship, or outright scams.
If they aren’t licensed, they shouldn’t be in your home—no exceptions.
Your home is too valuable to take chances. Do your due diligence. Ask questions. And always insist on a licensed professional.
