Not all contractors are created equal. Here's what NC property owners need to know before hiring someone to install their metal building.
North Carolina requires a General Contractor's license for building projects over $30,000. Even for smaller projects, a licensed contractor provides accountability, insurance protection, and expertise that unlicensed installers can't match. Verify any contractor's license at nclbgc.org — the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors. Carolina Metal Structures license #108035 is active and in good standing.
Are you a licensed NC General Contractor? (Get the license number and verify it.) Do you carry liability insurance and workers' compensation? Do you pull permits and provide engineered drawings? Is your quote for the complete installed project or just materials? What warranty do you provide on workmanship? Can you provide references from NC customers? How long have you been installing metal buildings in NC?
No NC contractor's license (or won't provide the number). Cash-only payments with no contract. No written warranty. Won't pull permits or says permits aren't needed. Price that's dramatically lower than other quotes (often means cut corners). No physical business address or professional presence. Pressure to sign immediately without time to review.
Kit companies sell you materials — that's it. You're responsible for finding an installer, pulling permits, coordinating foundation work, and managing inspections. If something goes wrong, you're stuck between the kit company (who blames the installer) and the installer (who blames the kit). A licensed general contractor like Carolina Metal Structures handles everything under one contract with one point of accountability.
Get at least 2-3 quotes, but make sure you're comparing the same scope of work. A quote for materials only is not comparable to a turnkey installed quote. The lowest price isn't always the best value — factor in licensing, warranty, permit handling, and reputation.