Need a Home Services / Electrical Work Contract in Michigan? AroundWire Can Help

In Michigan, contracts for home services involving electrical work are governed by both state and local regulations designed to protect consumers and ensure safety. Key contract characteristics include a clear scope of work, detailed pricing (fixed or time-and-materials), and a defined project timeline. Michigan law requires all electrical contractors to be licensed by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), and individual electricians must also hold appropriate state certifications. Contracts typically mandate that the contractor holds valid general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage to mitigate risk. Permits must be obtained for most residential electrical work, and contracts often specify responsibility for acquiring these permits. Payment terms usually involve an initial deposit (capped at a reasonable percentage by some local ordinances), with the balance due upon satisfactory completion and inspection. Retainage clauses are less common in small-scale residential work but may appear in larger projects. Dispute resolution preferences in Michigan often favor mediation or arbitration before litigation, and contracts should reference the state’s Home Solicitation Sales Act, which allows a three-day right of rescission for contracts signed in the consumer’s home. Compliance with the Michigan Electrical Code, based on the National Electrical Code with state amendments, is mandatory and often referenced in contract language. Contractors should also be aware of local city or county requirements, which may impose additional licensing or inspection obligations.