It is a gross misdemeanor to offer to work, submit a bid, advertise, or do work as a contractor in the State of Washington without being registered. A conviction is punishable by up to one year in jail and a $5,000 fine.
Failure to register also subjects the contractor to a possible Consumer Protection Act claim, which can include treble damages (up to a maximum of $10,000) and an award of attorney fees and costs.
Further, an unregistered contractor is not permitted to bring or maintain suit for compensation, breach of contract, or any other claim arising from the activity for which the contractor should have been registered.
Kristal M. Cowger, Attorney at Law
Blado Kiger Bolan, Tacoma, Wash.