Alabama officials warn of unlicensed contractors after Hurricane Isaias
www.fox10tv.com, Abby Haymond, October 11, 2026
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) - The Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board is warning residents to watch for unlicensed contractors offering to repair homes damaged by Hurricane Isaias.
Officials said anyone who comes to a door offering repair work should be asked to show a license.
License requirements
In Alabama, a builder’s license is required for jobs over $10,000. A roofer’s license is required for storm-damaged roof repairs over $2,500.
Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work carry no dollar threshold at all — if a contractor performs any of those services, they are required to hold a license issued by the appropriate state regulatory agency, regardless of the job’s cost.
Governor Kay Ivey has issued an emergency declaration for over 40 counties.
Under a new law, unlicensed contractors who offer repair work after a declared emergency can now face a Class C felony.
“Taking advantage of fellow Alabamians who suffer damage or loss of property will not be tolerated. Be wary of people who come in trying to take advantage of you at a very difficult and challenging time after a storm event... once the governor has declared that emergency declaration, if you’re caught out there offering services and acting as an unlicensed home builder or any of those other trades, you can be charged with a Class C felony,” said Seth Gowan, executive director of the Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board.
Pattern seen after storms
Gowan said his office sees the same pattern after almost all severe weather events: unlicensed, out-of-state contractors moving in on storm victims.
He said residents should be especially cautious of anyone who makes unsolicited contact or who is from out of town.
“Ask for and check references, especially if the builder makes unsolicited contact with you or is from out-of-town,” Gowan said.
How to verify a license
The board said before hiring anyone, residents should ask to see their license card, check references, and get a written contract with the license number on it.
Licensed home builders are required by state law to use a written contract. That contract must include:
- The contractor’s full name, address and telephone number
- A description of the work to be performed
- Starting and estimated completion dates
- The total cost of the job
You can verify a contractor’s license status by calling the Home Builders Licensure Board toll-free at 1-800-304-0853, or when you click or tap here.
“Be cautious and patient. Work with your insurance company, check to make sure contractors are licensed, ask a lot of questions, and if you believe a contractor is not in the area for the right reasons, call law enforcement,” Gowan said.
Residents who suspect someone is a scammer are asked to report it to the board and law enforcement.
News article: https://www.fox10tv.com/2026/10/12/alabama-officials-warn-unlicensed-contractors-after-hurricane-isaias/