Can contractors start projects before their license is approved?

Contractors in Arizona must wait for their license to be officially approved before they can legally commence work on projects. This requirement is in place to ensure that all contractors meet the necessary qualifications and standards mandated by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. Working without a valid license can expose contractors to significant legal risks and financial penalties.

Having a contractor's license ensures that the contractor has met all the educational, experience, and competency standards set forth by the regulatory body. It also provides a layer of consumer protection, as licensed contractors are held to specific rules and regulations that govern their business practices. Starting work without this approval undermines these safeguards and could lead to complications, including liability issues and inability to obtain permits for the project.

Other choices imply alternate scenarios that are not permissible under Arizona law, reinforcing the importance of proper licensure before beginning any construction work.