Continuing Competency is not just a renewal checkbox for Michigan builders. It is a critical part of staying licensed, reducing liability, and operating a profitable construction business. Michigan’s licensing requirements are designed to ensure builders remain current with evolving codes, safety regulations, and business laws that directly affect jobsite practices and legal exposure.
Below are the top five reasons Michigan builders need Continuing Competency,
1. It Is Required to Renew a Michigan Builder’s License
Michigan law requires licensed residential builders and maintenance & alteration contractors to complete mandatory Continuing Competency education to renew their licenses. At minimum, builders must complete a 3-hour Continuing Competency course covering essential topics such as code updates, safety, and business practices.
Failure to complete the required education can result in:
- Inability to renew your license
- Creates a lapsed license and project delays
- Additional fees or reapplication requirements
Completing Continuing Competency on time ensures uninterrupted eligibility to legally perform construction work in Michigan.
2. Building Codes and Safety Rules Change Regularly
Construction standards are not static. Michigan builders are expected to stay current with updates to:
- The Michigan Residential Code
- MIOSHA safety regulations
- Fall protection standards
- Jobsite accident prevention requirements
Continuing Competency courses help builders understand how these changes affect daily operations, inspections, and compliance. Staying current reduces the risk of failed inspections, job shutdowns, and safety violations.
3. Continuing Competency Helps Reduce Legal and Financial Liability
One of the most overlooked benefits of Continuing Competency is liability reduction.
Courses regularly cover:
- Changes to construction and labor laws
- Updates to safety enforcement and penalties
- Contractor responsibilities under Michigan statutes
- Risk management and documentation best practices
Builders who are unaware of current requirements face increased exposure to:
- Fines and citations
- Civil liability
- Insurance issues
- Payment disputes
Education helps builders identify risks before they become costly problems.
4. It Keeps Builders Compliant with MIOSHA Requirements
Michigan builders with employees must comply with MIOSHA regulations, which include:
- Fall protection standards
- Accident Prevention Programs (APPs)
- First aid and “competent person” requirements
- Ongoing safety documentation
Continuing Competency training reinforces employer responsibilities and clarifies what MIOSHA expects during inspections or incident reviews. This is especially important for builders who supervise crews or subcontractors.
5. It Strengthens Business Skills, Not Just Construction Skills
Being a licensed builder also means running a business. Continuing Competency courses frequently include instruction on:
- Business law and contractor obligations
- Recordkeeping and compliance documentation
- Risk management strategies
- Operational best practices
Many builders are highly skilled tradespeople but have limited exposure to changing business regulations. Continuing education helps close that gap, leading to stronger operations and fewer compliance surprises.
Why Continuing Competency Matters Beyond Renewal
Michigan’s Continuing Competency requirement exists to protect:
- Builders
- Employees
- Clients
- The public
It ensures licensed professionals are equipped to build safely, legally, and responsibly in an industry where mistakes can carry serious consequences. Completing your Continuing Competency is not just about renewing a license. It’s about staying informed, protected, and competitive.
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