Quick Facts:

  • Regulating Agency: Various Local Licensing Authorities (no statewide licensing authority)
  • Required Bond Amount: $5,000-$20,000 (varies by jurisdiction)
  • Cost Range: $100-$600 annually (depending on credit)
  • Required For: General contractors and specialty trades in most municipalities

What Is a Kansas Contractor License Bond?

A Kansas contractor license bond is a surety bond that serves as a financial guarantee that contractors will follow all applicable laws, building codes, and safety regulations. These bonds protect homeowners, clients, and the public from financial loss by providing compensation if a contractor fails to meet their obligations, such as violating code or leaving a project unfinished.

Who Regulates Kansas Construction Contractor Licensing?

There is no statewide contractor licensing system in Kansas. Instead, licensing is handled by individual cities and counties. Major licensing authorities include:

  • Wichita/Sedgwick County Metropolitan Area Building and Construction Department (MABCD)
  • Johnson County Contractor Licensing (JCCL) program (covering Overland Park and surrounding cities)
  • Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, KS Building Inspection Department

What Bond Amount Is Required in Kansas?

Bond amounts vary by jurisdiction:

  • Wichita: $5,000 for most contractors, $2,000 for wrecking/demolition contractors
  • Overland Park/Johnson County: $20,000 for all licensed contractors
  • Kansas City, KS/Wyandotte County: $5,000 for all contractor types
  • Non-Resident Contractors: 8% of contract amount (minimum $1,000) for out-of-state contractors doing projects over $10,000

How Much Does a Contractor Bond Cost in Kansas?

  • Small bonds ($5,000): Typically around $100 per year
  • Larger bonds ($20,000): Generally $200-$600 per year
  • Non-Resident Contractor bonds: Approximately 1-5% of the bond amount
  • Factors affecting cost: Credit score, business experience, financial stability
  • Most bonds can be obtained instantly or within 24 hours

Who Needs a Contractor License Bond in Kansas?

Bond requirements vary by location, but generally include:

  • General building contractors in most municipalities
  • Specialty trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, concrete, etc.)
  • Contractors working on public infrastructure or right-of-way projects
  • Out-of-state contractors working on projects over $10,000 in Kansas

What Other Contractor Bonds Are Required in Kansas?

  • Non-Resident Contractor Bond: Required for out-of-state contractors on projects over $10,000
  • Some municipalities may require specific bonds for specialized work:
    • Performance and maintenance bonds for certain public improvements
    • Special bonds for demolition or house-moving contractors
  • General liability insurance is typically required alongside bonds

How Does ContractorNerd’s Application Process Work?

  1. Complete our simple online application form
  2. Receive an instant quote (in most cases)
  3. Pay securely online
  4. Download your bond certificate immediately
  5. We’ll mail the original bond documents to you

How Quickly Can I Purchase a Bond?

Most Kansas contractor license bonds can be issued instantly or within minutes of application, especially for the common $5,000 bonds. Even the larger $20,000 Johnson County bonds can typically be approved and issued within 24 hours.

Who Files the Bond With the KS Once It Is Purchased?

You’ll need to file your bond with the appropriate local licensing authority:

  • For Wichita/Sedgwick County: File with MABCD
  • For Johnson County: File with JCCL
  • For Kansas City, KS: File with the Building Inspection Department
  • For Non-Resident Contractor bonds: File with the Kansas Department of Revenue

Our team can help guide you through the proper filing procedures for your specific jurisdiction.

How Are Claims Handled on a Kansas Contractor Bond?

If a contractor violates local building codes, fails to complete work as agreed, or damages public property without making repairs, a claim may be filed against their bond. The process typically involves:

  1. A complaint being filed with the licensing authority
  2. Investigation of the complaint
  3. If valid, the surety may pay out the claim (up to the bond limit)
  4. The contractor is legally obligated to reimburse the surety for any paid claims

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I get a contractor bond with bad credit?
Yes, even contractors with credit challenges can obtain the required bonds. Since most Kansas municipal bonds are relatively small ($5,000), they can often be issued regardless of credit score, though premiums may be higher.

What happens if I work without a bond?
Working without the required bond can result in license suspension, fines, and inability to pull permits. Contractors working without proper bonding may also face penalties from local licensing authorities.

When do I need to renew my bond?
Most Kansas contractor bonds follow the license renewal schedule:

  • Wichita bonds renew on the anniversary of issuance
  • Johnson County/Overland Park bonds typically follow the calendar year
  • Kansas City, KS bonds expire December 31 each year

What’s the difference between a bond and insurance?
A bond protects your customers and the licensing authority, while insurance protects you. Bonds require you to repay any claims paid by the surety, while insurance claims are not repaid by the policyholder.

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