Tennessee Contractor Guide

Licensing in Tennessee

The average home improvement project in Tennessee runs about $31,000. That's close to the roughly $35,540 national average project cost. That puts it roughly in the middle nationally — 35th highest of the 50 states. Tennessee is one of 31 states that requires a statewide contractor license through Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors — always verify a contractor's license number before signing anything. The most common projects here are Deck addition, Bathroom remodel and Roof replacement. Tennessee requires licensing for projects over $25,000. Verify at tn.gov/commerce/boards/contractors.

Licensing body: Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors

How to Vet and Pay a Contractor Safely

Get at least three written bids for anything over a couple thousand dollars — a bid that's dramatically lower than the others is a red flag, not a deal. Never pay more than 10–30% upfront (many states cap deposits by law); the rest should follow a payment schedule tied to inspected milestones, with the final payment held until the work passes a final walkthrough. Confirm the contractor carries general liability and workers' comp insurance — ask for a certificate naming you, not just their word for it — and get every change order in writing before the work starts, not after. For structural, electrical, or plumbing work, confirm your contractor is pulling the required permits — unpermitted work can complicate a future sale and may not be covered by insurance if something goes wrong.