Is a contractor license bond required statewide in Indiana?
No, Indiana does not have a statewide contractor license bond requirement. Instead, individual cities and counties set their own bonding requirements for contractor licenses. For example, Indianapolis, Evansville, Terre Haute, and South Bend all have specific bond requirements that vary by trade and municipality. You must check with the local building department where you plan to work to determine if a bond is required.
What is the bond amount for an Indiana contractor license bond?
Indiana contractor license bond amounts vary by municipality and trade, ranging from $1,000 to $250,000. For example, Indianapolis requires $10,000 for general contractors and electricians, $5,000 for HVACR contractors, and up to $30,000 for wrecking contractors. Lake and Porter Counties require a unified $5,000 bond under Indiana Code § 22-11-3.1-2. Contact your local building department to confirm the specific amount required for your license.
Who is the obligee for Indiana contractor license bonds?
The obligee varies depending on the municipality. In Indianapolis, it's the "Consolidated City of Indianapolis and/or Unknown Third Party." In other cities, it's typically the local building department or county recorder. Some counties like Lake and Porter require the bond to be filed with the county recorder under IC § 22-11-3.1-2. Always verify the exact obligee name with your local licensing authority before purchasing the bond.