Find a licensed NYC home improvement contractor
New York City requires contractors who sell or do home improvement work on homes of up to four units to hold a DCWP license. Every business below has an active license in the City's own file, listed by borough.
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Where this data comes from
Every listing starts from public records — NYC DCWP Issued Licenses (NYC Open Data w7w3-xahh), NYC DCWP: check a license, DCWP Home Improvement Contractor Trust Fund — not from who paid to be listed. A DCWP license active badge means we matched the business to an active public record, dated. Read the methodology →
Common questions
Does a NYC contractor need a license for home improvement?
Generally yes. The City's Home Improvement Business law requires a DCWP license to sell or perform home improvement work on residences of up to four units. Work totalling $200 or less is exempt unless it is part of a larger job split to avoid the license. See how to check a license.
Does the license cover plumbing and electrical work?
No. It does not authorise work reserved for other licensed professionals. Plumbing and electrical work must be filed and supervised by NYC licensed master plumbers and electricians. See permits and licenses.
Can I cancel a home improvement contract?
The Administrative Code lets an owner cancel until midnight of the third business day after signing or receiving the notice of cancellation, whichever is later, with an exception for emergency repairs. See the contract checklist.
What is the Trust Fund?
A DCWP fund that can repay homeowners when a licensed contractor did not finish a job or owes them money. Eligibility and limits are on DCWP's page. See our guide.
Why is a contractor not listed?
We list active DCWP Home Improvement Contractor licenses only. A business may hold a different license type, have an expired license, or have been added since our last weekly refresh.
Do you publish complaints or ratings?
No. We show the license record only. To see complaint information, or to file one, contact DCWP through 311.