As a CSL, do I need a HIC? If I have an unrestricted Construction Supervisor License (CSL) do I need to be registered as a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) for example to add a deck to a 2-Family owner occupied house?
You need to submit the HIC application form in order to pay into the guaranty fund since the work is on an owner occupied dwelling per 780 CMR 110.R6. Per Section 5110.5, an owner that secures a building permit for his dwelling is exempt from contributing to the guaranty fund (a fund to assist aggrieved homeowners). However, if a CSL does the work he is considered a “home improvement contractor” per 110.R6.1.2 and, per Section 110.R.2.4.1.2, is exempt from paying the home improvement contractor registration fee but must pay into the guaranty fund for work on owner occupied dwellings. The logistics for CSL’s paying into the guaranty fund involve submitting an HIC registration form and only paying the guaranty fund fee. Forms are available on the DPS website: www.mass.gov/dps.
