Understanding Professional Standards: Your Guide to Paint Contractor Certification Programs in Michigan’s Evolving Industry
Michigan’s painting industry has undergone significant changes in recent years, creating both opportunities and challenges for consumers seeking qualified contractors. Until March 28th, 2019, all Michigan painters were required to hold a M&A Contractor license. The House Fiscal Agency required painters hold a license to prevent consumer fraud, however, former Governor Rick Snyder, signed a repeal law on December 27th 2018 to remove painters from the list of professions that require licensing. This deregulation has made understanding professional standards and certifications more crucial than ever for homeowners and business owners.
The Current Licensing Landscape in Michigan
While Michigan no longer requires state-level licensing for most painting work, any paint job over $600 will require you to get a license in the state of Michigan under specific circumstances. In Michigan, painting contractors need both state licensure and registration at the local level. To obtain licensure, complete the 60-hour pre-licensing course and take and pass the licensing exam. This creates a complex regulatory environment where professional standards vary significantly.
For contractors seeking broader credentials, Michigan issues two types of general contractor licenses: Residential Builder or Maintenance & Alteration Contractor. The Residential Builder license allows the holder to legally perform commercial or residential contracting work whether that be initial construction, service, or replacement to properties. These licenses require 60 hours of approved prelicensure courses (at least 6 hours in each subject below). Business Management, Estimating, and Job Costing (6 hours) along with additional coursework in safety, legal requirements, and technical skills.
Professional Association Standards and Certifications
In the absence of strict state licensing, professional associations have become increasingly important for establishing industry standards. Originally known as “Painting and Decorating Contractors of America” (PDCA), our association was created to address abuses in the industry and ensure the skill and reputation of master painters. In 2019, we adopted the name “Painting Contractors Association” (PCA) to reflect our evolving mission.
The PCA offers comprehensive certification programs through their educational initiatives. PCA members have exclusive and free access to PCA Overdrive, offering over 600 hours of educational and entertaining content, specifically crafted for painting professionals. Learn how to grow and advance your business with PCA’s Business Training, taught by leading professionals in the painting industry. These programs cover everything from technical application methods to business management and safety protocols.
For commercial specialists, The first and only professional trade association dedicated to commercial painting contractors around the globe. The Commercial Painting Industry Association (CPIA) is a Peer Group driven trade association focused on bringing together elite business owners and their key team members on a regular basis to share, connect, and grow as both individuals and leaders.
Essential Certifications for Professional Painters
The most common combination of painter certifications include: OSHA Safety Certificate, EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA), and Painting Contractor Certification. The best certifications for a painter are OSHA Safety Certificate, EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA), and Painting Contractor Certification. These certifications demonstrate competency and commitment to professional standards.
Safety certifications are particularly crucial, as this 40-hour program covers both the Construction 1926 and General Industry 1910 Standards, how to effectively interpret the Federal Register, health issues related to a work environment, recognition of physical hazards related to the violation of OSHA standards, and employer implementation of their own pro-active safety and health procedures.
Specialized certifications like The Certified Coating Applicator certification (CCA) is designed for experienced industrial coatings applicators. By achieving the CCA certification, candidates will have a formal, industry recognized certification demonstrating their skills and knowledge to customers and employers. The CCA certification is intended for an experienced industrial coatings applicator who is able to work independently.
Insurance and Bonding Requirements
Professional standards in Michigan extend beyond certifications to include proper insurance and bonding. Unlike most states, Michigan does not currently mandate statewide bonding requirements for painters and painting contractors. However, many specific municipalities and public agencies frequently impose localized bonding requirements on painting projects.
In Michigan, painters are required to have specific types of insurance to protect their business, their employees, and their clients. Firstly, Michigan law requires businesses with employees to carry worker’s compensation insurance. This applies to painting businesses as well. Secondly, if the painting business uses vehicles for work, they’re required to have commercial auto insurance.
Choosing a Certified Professional
When selecting a painting contractor, consumers should look for professionals who maintain current certifications and insurance coverage. Companies like Painting Contractor in Macomb County, MI demonstrate their commitment to professional standards through comprehensive service offerings and proper business practices. Legends Painting is built on more than 10 years of hands-on painting experience. We specialize in delivering exceptional residential and commercial painting services. Family-owned and operated, we prioritize superior workmanship, customer satisfaction, and competitive pricing to make sure you’ll call us for your next project too.
Professional contractors should be able to demonstrate their credentials, including any relevant certifications, insurance coverage, and professional association memberships. Only 63 companies nationwide have earned this accreditation. This accreditation is achieved by completing all the necessary courses and submitting the appropriate business documents. Such accreditation represents a significant commitment to professional excellence.
The Future of Professional Standards
As Michigan’s painting industry continues to evolve, professional standards will likely become increasingly important for distinguishing qualified contractors. On the other hand, the lack of state licensing means clients are left with less options for recourse if a painter does a poor job since they can no longer bring complaints to the state. New painters will likely appreciate this rule change because it is now much cheaper to start a painting business.
This environment places greater responsibility on consumers to verify contractor qualifications and on professional painters to maintain high standards voluntarily. Certification programs, professional association memberships, and comprehensive insurance coverage have become the primary indicators of contractor reliability and competence.
Making Informed Decisions
Understanding Michigan’s current regulatory landscape and available certification programs empowers consumers to make informed decisions when hiring painting contractors. While state licensing requirements have been relaxed, professional standards remain available through industry associations, certification programs, and insurance requirements. By choosing contractors who voluntarily maintain these higher standards, consumers can ensure they receive quality workmanship and professional service, even in a deregulated environment.
The key is to look beyond just price and consider the full picture of professional qualifications, certifications, insurance coverage, and industry standing when selecting a painting contractor for your next project.