Need a Plumbing Contract in Mississippi? AroundWire Can Help

In Mississippi, plumbing service contracts—whether for public or private sector projects—are governed by a combination of state statutes and local ordinances. Contractors must hold a valid Mississippi plumbing contractor license issued by the State Board of Contractors, with additional registration often required at the municipal level. Contracts typically stipulate compliance with the Mississippi State Plumbing Code and relevant building codes. Key legal requirements include verification of the contractor’s license, proof of general liability insurance (often with minimum coverage of $500,000–$1 million), and, for larger public works, performance and payment bonds as mandated by the Mississippi Public Procurement Review Board. Contracts commonly address risk allocation through indemnification clauses and require adherence to OSHA safety standards. Payment terms usually follow a milestone or progress-payment structure, with retainage (up to 5–10%) held until satisfactory completion and inspection. Mississippi’s prompt payment statutes apply, obligating payment within 45 days of invoice approval unless otherwise specified. Dispute resolution often favors mediation or arbitration before litigation, as outlined in the contract. Prevailing wage laws are generally not applicable except for federal projects. Notably, “pay-if-paid” and “pay-when-paid” clauses are enforceable but must be clearly stated. Change order procedures, warranty obligations, and scope of work definitions are typically detailed to minimize ambiguity. Local contracting norms emphasize clear documentation and strict adherence to licensing and inspection requirements.