If you're a contractor in Michigan, you may be required to obtain a Michigan Compliance Contractor Bond with a New Bond at Renewal as part of your licensing or permit process. This bond guarantees that you will follow all state and local construction regulations, building codes, and contractual obligations.
From what Iโve seen, this type of bond differs from a continuous bond because it requires a new bond to be issued each year, rather than simply filing a continuation certificate. This means that at renewal, youโll need to apply for a new bond instead of extending your existing one.
A Michigan Compliance Contractor Bond is a surety bond required by local municipalities, counties, or state agencies to ensure that contractors comply with building codes, safety laws, and contractual obligations.
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Legal Compliance โ Ensures contractors follow local and state laws
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Financial Protection โ Covers damages if the contractor violates terms
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Requires a New Bond at Renewal โ A fresh bond must be issued each year, unlike bonds with a continuation certificate
If a contractor fails to meet regulatory requirements, a claim can be filed against the bond. The surety company may cover the damages, but the contractor is responsible for reimbursing the surety for any paid claims.
This bond is required for contractors performing work that falls under state or local jurisdictional oversight.
๐น General Contractors
๐น Electrical Contractors
๐น Plumbing Contractors
๐น HVAC Technicians
๐น Roofing Contractors
๐น Excavation and Demolition Contractors
๐น Other Specialty Trade Contractors
๐ When applying for or renewing a contractorโs license
๐ When obtaining a permit for a construction project
๐ When bidding on public projects that require compliance guarantees
๐ When required by a municipal building department
Iโve noticed that many city and county building departments in Michigan require this bond before issuing permits, so checking with your local authorities can help prevent project delays.
The bond amount depends on state or local government requirements and varies based on the size and scope of the contractorโs work.
๐น $5,000 โ $25,000 for small to mid-sized contractors
๐น $50,000+ for larger contractors or high-risk projects
The cost of your bond is a small percentage of the total bond amount, usually between 1% and 10% per year, depending on your qualifications.
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For a $10,000 bond: Your cost could be $100 โ $1,000 per year
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For a $25,000 bond: Your cost could be $250 โ $2,500 per year
๐ Personal & Business Credit Score โ Better credit means lower premiums
๐ Industry Experience โ Experienced contractors may qualify for better rates
๐ Claims History โ Previous claims may increase costs
๐ Financial Strength โ Strong business financials can reduce rates
From my experience, contractors with strong credit and a clean business record often secure the lowest bond rates, while those with credit challenges may pay higher premiums or need financing options.
Since this bond requires a new bond issuance every year, the process involves reapplying at renewal rather than just submitting a continuation certificate.
1๏ธโฃ Confirm the Bond Requirement โ Check with your local licensing authority to verify the bond amount.
2๏ธโฃ Apply for the Bond โ Submit an application with your business and financial details.
3๏ธโฃ Receive a Quote โ Get a competitive rate based on your qualifications.
4๏ธโฃ Approval & Bond Issuance โ Once approved, your bond is issued.
5๏ธโฃ Submit Your Bond โ File it with the appropriate licensing or permitting authority.
6๏ธโฃ Renew with a New Bond Each Year โ Instead of extending the existing bond, you must apply for a new one at renewal.
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Same-day approvals for many contractors
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Standard processing: 24-48 hours
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Additional underwriting required for high-risk applicants
A Compliance Contractor Bond with a New Bond at Renewal isnโt just a regulatory requirementโit offers key benefits for contractors.
โ๏ธ Ensures Legal Compliance โ Meets local and state contractor regulations
โ๏ธ Provides Financial Protection โ Covers damages if the contractor violates terms
โ๏ธ Builds Business Credibility โ Clients and municipalities trust bonded contractors more
โ๏ธ Facilitates Licensing & Permits โ Many agencies require this bond before granting permits
From what Iโve seen, contractors who maintain their bond without interruptions have a competitive advantage, especially when working on government or municipal projects.
Unlike bonds with continuation certificates, this bond requires a new bond application every renewal period.
๐จ What Happens If You Donโt Renew?
If you fail to secure a new bond each year:
โ Your bond will expire, and your contractor license may be suspended
โ Your permits may be revoked, delaying projects
โ You could face legal penalties for non-compliance
I always recommend applying for a new bond at least 30-60 days before renewal to avoid any gaps in coverage.
If you need a Michigan Compliance Contractor Bond that requires a new bond at renewal, I can help you secure fast approvals and competitive rates.
๐น Quick processing โ often same-day approvals
๐น Low-cost options for qualified contractors
๐น Flexible financing available for credit challenges
๐น Expert guidance on bonding and licensing requirements
Letโs get your bond issued today! Contact me now to get started. ๐